Lens vs Lyon Prediction, Preview, Predicted Lineups and Team News | Ligue 1

Tournament: Ligue 1

Date: Saturday, 16th August 2025

Kick-off Time: 03:00 PM GMT

Venue: Stade Bollaert-Delelis

Lens host Olympique Lyon at Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Saturday, with both teams hoping for a good start to the Ligue 1 season. Lens, who finished eighth last season, have been positive during preseason, topped by a 2–1 friendly victory over RB Leipzig. With new head coach Pierre Sage, Lens have revamped their team with high-level signings and look to replace departed stars through tactical adaptability and pacey changes. A home record that is impressive, and encounters in the past indicate a battle advantage—Lens have picked up points in recent meetings.

Lyon, on the other hand, had the misfortune of facing a troubled off-season, dealing with changes in ownership and significant roster upheaval. Pivotal players such as Alexandre Lacazette and Rayan Cherki have departed, but Lyon have brought some youthful dynamism to midfield and up front. While they lost 2–1 to Bayern Munich during preseason, Lyon's attack—headed by Georges Mikautadze—may challenge Lens' revamped back line. The previous results favour Lyon slightly, but Lens' pressing and strong support from home crowds might be the difference-maker.

Lens Team News

Pierre Sage has been appointed as the Lens coach ahead of the start of the season. Kevin Danso and Brice Samba, two important defensive players, have left, while Samson Baidoo, a backup from RB Salzburg, has joined the backline. Matthieu Udol and Saud Abulhamid bolster the wings, while Jeremy Agbonifo's permanent arrival and record signing Florian Thauvin's significant creative influence help strengthen the attack. Remy Lascary is out with a cruciate ligament injury, while Jonathan Gradit will miss out because he is suspended.

Olympique Lyon Team News

Corentin Tolisso remains the captain for the upcoming season, but long-time players Alexandre Lacazette and Rayan Cherki have left. Georges Mikautadze leads the attack as the team welcomes Tyler Morton, Pavel Sulc, and Malick Fofana (fit after previous injury concerns). With Remy Descamps most likely starting in goal and players like Nicolas Tagliafico contributing experience, defensive options have been rearranged. On the injury front Orel Mangala and Ernest Nuamah remain sidelined, while Nemanja Matic is suspended for this game.

Lens vs Lyon Predicted Lineups

Here are Sportsdunia's Lens vs Olympique Lyon predicted lineups:

Lens Predicted Lineup (3-4-3)

Goalkeeper: Robin Risser

Defenders: Samson Baidoo, Malang Sarr, Matthieu Udol

Midfielders: Saud Abdulhamid, Andy Diouf, Adrien Thomasson, Deiver Machado

Attackers: Florian Thauvin, Morgan Guilavogui, Wesley Said

Lyon Predicted Lineup

Goalkeeper: Remy Descamps

Defenders: Sael Kumbedi, Clinton Mata, Moussa Niakhate, Nicolas Tagliafico

Midfielders: Corentin Tolisso, Tyler Morton, Pavel Sulc

Attackers: Malick Fofana, Georges Mikautadze, Enzo Molebe

Lens vs Lyon Head-to-Head Record

In their last 17 encounters, Lyon has won nine, Lens five, and drawn three. Although Lens has increased their win percentage in recent games, Lyon still has a modest historical advantage in Ligue 1.

Key Players to Watch Out in Lens vs Lyon

Florian Thauvin (Lens)

The French forward, who brings Ligue 1 experience, World Cup-winning history, and dynamic attacking prowess to Lens, is a huge bargain. One of Ligue 1's most seasoned creative talents, Thauvin is 32 years old and has played for Marseille, Newcastle, and most recently, Udinese. In an indication of their faith in his ability to lead their offensive, Lens spent 6 million euros for the French international and signed him till 2028. Thauvin should be a key component of Lens' tactical setup, particularly in crucial games, due to his vision and capacity to score or create under duress. When facing Lyon's new defence, his leadership and adaptability may make the difference.

Georges Mikautadze (Lyon)

With important goals and inventive play throughout the previous campaign, the Georgian international—who is known for his quick movement and accurate finishing—stepped up. Mikautadze takes on more responsibility once a number of offensive players leave; his quickness and awareness around the penalty box make him an invaluable player in close games. Lyon's prospects frequently depend on Mikautadze's ability to stretch defences and convert chances, but support from Tolisso and new additions like Fofana and Sulc should provide up additional possibilities.

Lens vs Lyon Prediction

Given Lens’ cohesion, tactical flexibility, and robust home support as stated in Lens vs Olympique Lyon preview, they are well positioned to edge Lyon in a match offering goals and attacking action. Expect dynamic wide play from both sides, with Thauvin and Mikautadze (both mentioned in the Lyon vs Olympique Lyon predicted lineups) as the most likely match-winners. Sportsdunia expects Lens to narrowly overcome Lyon but both teams to find the net in an entertaining encounter likely to kick off the Ligue 1 season with drama.

Predicted Score: Lens 2-1 Lyon

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