Lyon: chasing a comeback after first-leg setback

Lyon earned their place in the Champions League qualifying rounds after a solid domestic campaign last season. The French side collected 60 points from 34 matches, finishing fourth and securing a route toward Europe’s elite competition. However, their Champions League ambitions now depend on overcoming Sparta Prague in this tie.

Sparta enjoyed an even stronger league campaign, finishing second in the Czech top flight with 76 points from 35 games, only four points behind the champions. The Czech club has already begun its new domestic season, although the opening results have been inconsistent, with two defeats and one victory from three matches.

The first leg between the two sides produced a dramatic turnaround. Lyon initially took the lead through a Sparta own goal late in the first half, but the hosts responded with impressive character. They levelled the score in the 63rd minute, survived a missed Lyon penalty shortly afterwards, and completed the comeback four minutes later to secure a 2-1 victory. Sparta now arrive in France with a narrow advantage and will aim to defend it with maximum discipline.

Match facts and head-to-head record

Sparta Prague won the first leg 2-1.

Lyon have suffered three defeats in their last four matches.

Sparta Prague’s last five games have produced three losses and two wins.

In the previous five meetings between the clubs, Lyon have the advantage with three victories, while Sparta Prague have won once and one match ended in a draw.

Probable line-ups

Lyon: Greif; Kluivert, Tessmann, Mata; Ouedraogo, Carvalho, Morton, Maitland-Niles; Tolisso, Openda, Vinicius.

Sparta Prague: Surovcik; Suchomel, Sevinsky, Sorensen, Rynes; Macek, Irving; Mercado, Karabec, Alcocer; Brunes.