Lyon and Lille are set for a clash in the Coupe de France, aiming for a quarter-final spot at Groupama Stadium on Wednesday.
Les Gones overcame Bergerac Perigord 2-1 in their last knockout game, while Lille narrowly defeated Racing Colombes 92 with a 1-0 score to make it to the round of 16.
Match Preview
Despite struggles in Ligue 1, Lyon enters this match against Lille following a tough 1-0 victory over Marseille, marking their third win in five matches in 2024.
The permanent hiring of Pierre Sage as manager has brought stability, highlighted by a streak of four wins without conceding from December to January. This recent victory also lifted them from the relegation zone, sparking hope.
Lyon has successfully advanced in the Coupe de France, beating Pontarlier and Bergerac Perigord with a total score of 5-1. They are pursuing their first title since the 2011-12 season, the last time they were finalists.
Facing them is a strong Lille team, previously beaten in a penalty shootout in this competition. Lille reached the round of 16 thanks to Hakon Arnar Haraldsson’s goal against Racing Colombes 92, after a dominant 12-0 win over Golden Lion.
Under Paulo Fonseca, Lille has been unbeatable in 2024, including a 4-0 league win against Clermont. Currently fourth in Ligue 1, they are close to securing a spot in European competitions next season.
With six Coupe de France titles, their last being a 1-0 victory over PSG in 2011, Lille is now focusing on adding another. They have an impressive record, winning 12 and drawing eight in their last 21 games, with only one loss.
Team News
Lyon will miss Johann Lepenant due to a knee injury, with his return expected by month-end. Recent signings Nemanja Matic and Gift Orban, who played last weekend, are likely to start again.
Alexandre Lacazette, with 11 goals this season, aims to increase his tally on Wednesday.
Lille will be without Ivan Cavaleiro, Samuel Umtiti, and Bafode Diakite due to injuries. Jonathan David, after scoring twice against Clermont, bringing his season total to 13, is a key player to watch.
Lyon Possible Starting Lineup:
Lopes;
Mata, Lovren, O’Brien;
Tagliafico, Matic, Caqueret, Maitland-Niles;
Cherki, Lacazette, Orban
Lille Possible Starting Lineup:
Chevalier;
Santos, Yoro, Ribeiro, Ismaily;
Andre, Bentaleb;
Zhegrova, Gomes, Gudmundsson;
David
Prediction: Lyon 1-2 Lille
Lyon has shown improvement under their new manager, but Lille has performed better this season. We predict a close win for the Mastiffs, advancing them to the next round.