The hosts come into this match after a heavy 79:102 defeat to Panathinaikos in Athens, where ASVEL's starting five scored just 24 points and the bench accounted for 70% of their scoring. Valencia, meanwhile, opened their EuroLeague campaign with two wins: 96:94 away to Beşiktaş and a commanding 111:88 victory over Baskonia. However, their inconsistency in the Spanish league — including a 100:105 defeat to Lleida — gives the hosts a chance to bounce back.
ASVEL
ASVEL have played well on their home court under Tony Parker: they beat Maccabi Tel Aviv 84:74 in the opening round, then defeated Cholet Basket 97:85 in the French league. The 79:102 defeat to Panathinaikos in Athens exposed problems with the starting five, but the bench was highly productive, scoring 55 of the team's 79 points, with Sestina, Lighty and Besson all reaching double figures. ASVEL have also looked convincing in attack, scoring at least 83 points in two of their last three games.
Valencia
Valencia began their EuroLeague campaign with two wins under Javier Albert — 96:94 against Beşiktaş and 111:88 against Baskonia. New signing T. J. Shorts has driven their attack, scoring 26 points in Istanbul and recording a double-double against Baskonia with 12 points and 10 assists. Defensively, though, the Spanish club have struggled: they have conceded at least 87 points in all four of their competitive games this season, including a shock 100:105 defeat to Lleida in the ACB.
ASVEL vs Valencia Prediction
Valencia are playing excellent attacking basketball, but their poor defence gives opponents at any level a chance. ASVEL have traditionally made life difficult for Valencia on their home court — the hosts have won six of the last nine meetings in Lyon, although the Spanish side have won the last three. We will take some cover with a positive handicap on ASVEL, who are also capable of winning outright.
