Lyon on the verge of back-to-back victories over Lille since 2007.

2024-10-26

As Lille gear up to host Lyon at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy on Friday night, both teams aim to leverage contrasting recent fortunes in an enticing Ligue 1 clash where the Mastiffs seek back-to-back victories despite historically struggling against the visitors, while Lyon eyes rejuvenation after a stumble at home.

LOSC Lille

Lille navigated a challenging period with three consecutive away games. This journey began with a goalless draw against Monaco two weeks ago, followed by an impressive 3-1 Champions League win. Their streak continued with a dramatic 2-0 victory over Lens, sealed by late goals.

A controversial handball penalty decision in stoppage time shifted the momentum in favor of Bruno Génésio’s side. Jonathan David converted the penalty in the 90+8th minute, and Mohamed Bayo added a second three minutes later. Post-match, Génésio expressed his joy over the week's results, emphasizing the achievement of securing points at tough venues.

Despite the recent success, Lille remains fourth in the league, tied on 17 points with third-placed Marseille. They aim for back-to-back wins as they face Lyon at home for their matchday 10 Ligue 1 game. However, their historical performance against Lyon poses a challenge, with just one win in the last eight Ligue 1 encounters.

Lille is likely to line up in a 4—2—3—1 formation, featuring Jonathan David in attack. However, they will be without Alexsandro due to suspension.

Olympique Lyonnais

Lyon were held to a disappointing 2-2 draw against newly promoted Auxerre on home soil last weekend. Despite taking the lead twice, courtesy of Georges Mikautadze's goals, they couldn’t secure maximum points, ending their three-game winning streak in the league.

After the match, Pierre Sage expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, ‘The idea was to be fresh and to control the game, but things went completely the other way.’ This result leaves Lyon in seventh place with 14 points.

As they travel to Lille, Lyon hopes to return to winning ways, buoyed by their recent 4-3 victory against the hosts. However, they haven't secured consecutive top-flight victories over Lille since the 2006-07 season.

A 4—3—3 formation is anticipated, featuring Malick Fofana, Saïd Benrahma, and last weekend’s goal scorer, Mikautadze, leading the attack.