Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Ligue 1 match.
After the international break, Strasbourg and Olympique Lyonnais return to action with a direct duel for European places. Just two points separate them in the table, and with a spot in continental competition up for grabs, the hosts have plenty of motivation.
Strasbourg
Strasbourg are currently seventh — not enough for even a Europa Conference League berth — but their campaign is impressive given their youth. This is the youngest squad in Ligue 1, with an average age of just 22.7 years. Many of these players will no doubt attract interest in the summer, but for now, they’re fully focused on climbing as high as possible. Recent form suggests they’re doing just that: five wins and a draw from their last six league outings.
Olympique Lyonnais
Olympique Lyonnais have been solid too, albeit with a slight blemish — five wins from six, with the lone loss coming against Paris Saint-Germain. That form keeps them in the European mix, though there’s a caveat: they are still fighting on two fronts, having reached the Europa League quarter-finals. With squad rotation and fixture congestion looming, it’s fair to expect a dip at some point. And let’s not forget the absence of Paulo Fonseca on the touchline — the head coach remains banned for nine months after a suspension for referee abuse.
Strasbourg vs Olympique Lyonnais Prediction
So, who has the edge when both sides are in good form? Strasbourg look more convincing at home, dropping points just twice in their last six at La Meinau (both draws). Olympique Lyonnais, by contrast, have been patchy on the road — three defeats and a draw in their last six away days.
