Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Women's Champions League match.
The reigning finalist of the Women’s Champions League faces tough competition straight away in the knockout rounds, as Bayern Munich look to challenge Olympique Lyonnais. Despite the hosts’ ability to cause problems, the French side are likely to dominate possession in Munich, with their attack hitting peak form ahead of the quarter-finals.
Bayern Munich (women)
Bayern Munich started strong in the group stage, but slipped up in draws against Vålerenga (1:1) and a 2:3 defeat to Arsenal, which cost them top spot in the group. Domestically, they remain in control of the Bundesliga, as rivals Eintracht Frankfurt, Wolfsburg, and Bayer Leverkusen continue to drop points. However, their recent 3:1 victory over Wolfsburg exposed defensive vulnerabilities—allowing 1.28 xGA and seven shots on target shows that Bayern’s defence can struggle under pressure.
Olympique Lyonnais (women)
Olympique Lyonnais’ only slip-up this season came in the French Cup, where they underestimated Reims and were eliminated in the Round of 32 (0:1 on penalties). Aside from that, their form has been impeccable—since 18 January, they have won five straight matches with a combined score of 25:2. In the Champions League, they took all 18 points in the group stage, proving their status as title contenders once again. Right now, it seems only Barcelona can stop them, as was the case in last season’s final.
Bayern Munich (women) vs Olympique Lyonnais (women) Prediction
Since November, Olympique Lyonnais have scored at least two goals in eight of their last nine away matches. Bayern Munich are expected to focus on attacking football, which will leave gaps at the back for Lyon to exploit.
