Metz vs Lyon Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups
Metz will face Lyon at Stade Saint-Symphorien on Sunday in a crucial Ligue 1 match. As the season progresses, Metz’s battle for survival intensifies. Meanwhile, Lyon aims to secure a place in European competitions.
Match Preview
Metz’s journey back to Ligue 1 has been challenging. After their promotion last season, they have secured only three victories from 18 games. Currently, they are on a six-match winless streak, having lost to Strasbourg 2-1 last weekend. Their defense has been a significant concern, conceding 40 goals, the highest in the league.
Despite these struggles, Metz has shown they can compete. They surprised their opponents with unexpected victories over Lens and Nice, and nearly took points from Paris Saint-Germain in a close 3-2 loss.
In contrast, Lyon is experiencing a resurgence this season. They have won seven straight matches across all competitions, bolstered by a recent 1-0 victory against Young Boys in the Europa League. Domestically, Lyon triumphed 2-1 over Brest, with goals from Pavel Sulc and Abner Vinicius.
Historical Context
Lyon has an excellent record against Metz, remaining unbeaten in their last four encounters. In their most recent match in August, Lyon convincingly won 3-0, a result that showcased the visitors’ strength.
Team News
Metz will likely miss defender Pape Sy, who is recovering from a head injury. Joseph Mangondo remains sidelined due to a knee injury, ruling him out for the season. However, Koffi Kouao returns from suspension, and key players Habib Diallo and Cheikh Sabaly are available following their success at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Lyon’s Ernest Nuamah is close to returning after a lengthy rehabilitation from a knee injury. Rachid Ghezzal, however, is out due to a groin issue.
Potential Lineups
Here are the potential starting lineups for both teams:
- Metz: Fischer; Kouao, Gbamin, Yegbe, Colin; B. Traore, Deminguet; Sane, Hein, Tsitaishvili; Sabaly
- Lyon: Grief; Maitland-Niles, Mata, Kluivert, Tagliafico; Tessman, Morton, Abner, Sulc; Endrick, Moreira
Prediction
We predict Lyon to defeat Metz 3-1. Despite Metz’s potential to rise to the occasion, Lyon’s momentum and offensive power are expected to shine through in this matchup.
