At the Groupama Stadium in Ligue 1, bottom-placed Lyon aims to build on their first win of the season when they face Lille on Sunday.
Match Preview
Lyon secured their maiden victory of the season against Rennes just before the international break, lifting them off the bottom of the table. However, they remain in a challenging position despite the win.
While Lyon’s recent win was against a Rennes side with ten men for most of the game, their triumph offers hope amidst a tight relegation battle in Ligue 1.
The league’s decision to reduce teams to 18 appears justified as the fight against relegation intensifies.
Lyon is showing signs of revival, sitting only six points behind 10th-placed Marseille and nine points off a European spot.
However, they face a tough schedule ahead with matches against formidable opponents, starting with Lille.
Lille, on the other hand, has struggled away from home, securing just one win on the road but remaining unbeaten since the opening day.
Despite their away struggles, they find themselves in the top four owing to an unbeaten streak.
While Lille has had success against Lyon at the Groupama Stadium in recent seasons, their away form has been peculiar with a string of draws, including in European competitions against relatively weaker opponents.
Team News
Alexandre Lacazette is expected to return to Lyon’s starting lineup after his decisive goal against Lille last season.
In defense, Jake O’Brien, who scored the winning goal in their last match, has been a key figure.
Lyon will miss the services of full-backs Clinton Mata and Nicolas Tagliafico due to injury and suspension, respectively. Johann Lepenant is also out with a knee injury.
Lille will be without Benjamin Andre due to suspension, joining Bafode Diakite and Tiago Djalo on the sidelines.
However, Tiago Djalo is close to returning from an ACL tear.
Possible Lineups
Lyon possible starting lineup:(4-3-3)
Lopes;
Kumbedi, Diomande, O’Brien, Henrique;
Alvero, Tolisso, Caqueret;
Cherki, Lacazette, Mama Balde
Lille possible starting lineup:(4-3-3)
Chevalier;
Tiago Santos, Yoro, Alexsandro, Ismaily;
Bentaleb, Gomes, Cabella;
Zhegrova, David, Ivan Cavaleiro
Prediction: Lyon 1-1 Lille
In a clash between two former French champions, Lyon’s signs of improvement might lead to a draw against Lille, who have struggled to secure wins on the road despite their unbeaten streak.