Le Havre and Lyon are geared up for an intriguing clash at Stade Oceane on Sunday evening in Ligue 1, both aiming to carry forward the momentum from their positive performances in the cup earlier this month.
Le Havre secured a close win against second-tier opponents in the Coupe de France in their last outing, while Lyon had a relatively smooth journey, easily progressing to the next round. It sets the stage for an exciting encounter as both teams look to capitalize on their recent cup successes.
Le Havre is facing a bit of a player shortage this month due to international duties. Key contributors like top scorer Bayo, midfielder Abdoulaye Toure, and former Swansea City player Andre Ayew are currently away representing their respective nations.
Adding to their challenges, Le Havre will be without enforcer Rassoul Ndiaye on Sunday as he serves a two-game suspension for a red card he picked up in the December 20 loss against Reims. On a positive note, Christopher Operi delivered a standout performance in the Coupe de France, so we can expect to see him retaining his spot as the left-back.
As for Lyon, they'll be missing two players, Ernest Nuamah and Mama Balde, who are away at the Africa Cup of Nations and won't be available for selection this weekend. Additionally, Dejan Lovren is still serving a suspension for one more game after receiving a red card in the fixture against Nantes last month. This means his fellow Croatian, Duje Caleta-Car, will need a new partner at center-back.
A notable mention is Jake O'Brien, an Irishman who is making a mark in a top-five European league after stints at Cork City and Swindon Town in recent years. The 22-year-old is expected to start on Sunday, showcasing his breakthrough season. It'll be interesting to see how these player dynamics play out in the upcoming match.
Le Havre secured a close win against second-tier opponents in the Coupe de France in their last outing, while Lyon had a relatively smooth journey, easily progressing to the next round. It sets the stage for an exciting encounter as both teams look to capitalize on their recent cup successes.
Le Havre is facing a bit of a player shortage this month due to international duties. Key contributors like top scorer Bayo, midfielder Abdoulaye Toure, and former Swansea City player Andre Ayew are currently away representing their respective nations.
Adding to their challenges, Le Havre will be without enforcer Rassoul Ndiaye on Sunday as he serves a two-game suspension for a red card he picked up in the December 20 loss against Reims. On a positive note, Christopher Operi delivered a standout performance in the Coupe de France, so we can expect to see him retaining his spot as the left-back.
As for Lyon, they'll be missing two players, Ernest Nuamah and Mama Balde, who are away at the Africa Cup of Nations and won't be available for selection this weekend. Additionally, Dejan Lovren is still serving a suspension for one more game after receiving a red card in the fixture against Nantes last month. This means his fellow Croatian, Duje Caleta-Car, will need a new partner at center-back.
A notable mention is Jake O'Brien, an Irishman who is making a mark in a top-five European league after stints at Cork City and Swindon Town in recent years. The 22-year-old is expected to start on Sunday, showcasing his breakthrough season. It'll be interesting to see how these player dynamics play out in the upcoming match.
Le Havre possible starting lineup:
Desmas; Sangante, Kinkoue, Lloris, Operi; Targhalline, Casimir, Nego, Kechta, Joujou; Grandsir
Lyon possible starting lineup:
Lopes; O'Brien, Caleta-Car, Kumbedi; Mata, Caqueret, Tolisso, Tagliafico; Kadewere, Cherki; Lacazette
Tags:
Ligue 1