Lyon vs Angers: Lineup Predictions and Key Storylines Ahead of Friday Clash
Alright, here’s the scoop on the upcoming Ligue 1 matchup between Olympique Lyonnais and Angers SCO. This Friday, Lyon returns to Groupama Stadium after suffering their first defeat of the season—a tough 3-1 loss away to Stade Rennes. They had been on a strong run, but a late sending-off in that match turned the tide, as three goals were conceded in the final eleven minutes, including two in stoppage time. That loss dropped them to fourth place in the table, just four points ahead of Angers.
Angers, on the other hand, have been quietly grinding out results. They drew 1-1 against Metz last weekend, with Himad Abdelli making his first appearance of the season off the bench. Abdelli, who has been rebuilding fitness after a back issue, is expected to remain on the bench against Lyon. Instead, Louis Mouton, the former Saint-Étienne midfielder, is likely to start in the No.10 role. Leading the attack for Angers will be Prosper Peter, stepping in for Esteban Lepaul, who moved to Stade Rennais in the recent transfer window. The only confirmed absentee for Alexandre Dujeux’s side is Jim Allevinah, as Angers look to maintain their promising start: one win, two draws, and one loss so far.
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For Lyon, injury concerns persist. Ernest Nuamah is still recovering from a cruciate ligament tear, Orel Mangala has been sidelined with a knee issue, and Tyler Morton is suspended following a red card in their last game. Corentin Tolisso, however, has been productive, netting two goals in four appearances, although he also picked up a knock in the Rennes game that may keep him sidelined temporarily.
Looking at form and stats, Lyon has been dominant at home, winning seven of their last eight matches at Groupama Stadium and not conceding a single home goal in the current campaign. Angers, meanwhile, have struggled on the road, winless in their last three away games and having scored just three goals in four matches this season—tying them with Metz and Auxerre for the fewest goals in Ligue 1. Defensive resilience has been their strength, though, as they have managed to earn points despite falling behind early in games.
As for predicted lineups, Lyon is expected to line up with Greif in goal, supported by Maitland-Niles, Mata, Niakhate, and Abner in defense. Tessmann will sit in midfield alongside Karabec, Tolisso, Sulc, and Fofana, with Merah leading the attack. Angers will likely deploy Koffi as goalkeeper, with Arcus, Camara, Lefort, and Ekomie forming the backline. Midfielders Belkhdim and Abdelli will control the center, while Raolisoa, Mouton, and Cherif support Prosper Peter up front.
In terms of tactics, Angers are expected to focus on containment, prioritizing defense over aggressive attacking play. Lyon, despite occasional errors, is favored to edge out a narrow victory at home, likely turning their early dominance into a decisive result. So, if you’re tuning in Friday, keep an eye on Abdelli’s impact off the bench and whether Lyon can bounce back strongly after last weekend’s setback.
It’s shaping up to be an intriguing clash, with Lyon aiming to assert home superiority and Angers hoping to snatch a point on enemy turf.
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