RC Strasbourg v Olympique Lyon predictions for Sunday’s Ligue 1 match. Can Strasbourg under Patrick Vieira begin the new season with a precious win victory over Lyon or will be the visitors to get the points? Read on for our free Ligue 1 predictions and betting tips.
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Match Live Sunday, 13th August at 7:45 pm In:
Strasbourg vs Lyon Predictions
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New Era, Same Rivalry: Vieira’s Strasbourg vs Blanc’s Lyon – A Preview of Ligue 1’s Opening Clash
Key Stats
– Lyon’s Pre-Season Struggle: Four defeats in five warm-up games, highlighting a possible vulnerability as they enter the new season.
– Lacazette’s Prolificacy: Lyon’s key striker Alexandre Lacazette scored 27 Ligue 1 goals last season, only two behind Golden Boot winner Kylian Mbappe.
The Stade de la Meinau is set to host a tantalising clash as Partick Vieira’s Strasbourg take on Laurent Blanc’s Lyon on Sunday night. This opening Ligue 1 fixture of the new season brings together two iconic figures from France’s 1998 World Cup-winning team, and both clubs have undergone significant changes leading into the 2023-24 campaign.
Strasbourg’s Ambitious Rebuild
New Beginnings
After narrowly escaping relegation last season by finishing 15th, Strasbourg have been keen to revolutionise their approach, commencing a significant overhaul.
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This commenced with the takeover by BlueCo, the consortium led by Todd Boehly (also owners of Chelsea), and the appointment of former Crystal Palace boss Vieira as head coach.
Transfer Window Splurge
Strasbourg’s strategy reflects Chelsea’s pattern of investing in young talents, with over €55 million spent on eight newcomers. This includes the club-record €20 million acquisition of defender Abakar Sylla from Club Brugge.
Pre-season Success
The pre-season preparation concluded with a 3-3 draw and a 2-1 victory against German club Werder Bremen. With three wins, three draws, and a loss, the hosts are optimistic and look to secure their first opening-day win in Ligue 1 for four years.
Lyon’s Quest for Redemption
Missing European Qualification
Lyon’s disappointing finish at seventh in Ligue 1 last season led to the replacement of Peter Bosz with Laurent Blanc. While initially stabilising the team, Lyon fell short of a top-five finish and have since found the pre-season disheartening, with four defeats in five warm-up games.
Pressure on Blanc
Blanc is no stranger to the pressure as he enters his first full season with Lyon. A victory against Strasbourg is essential, especially with challenging encounters against Nice and PSG looming.
Historical Edge
Lyon’s record against Strasbourg is reassuring, having lost only one of their last nine meetings. Their most recent clash ended in a 2-1 victory for Lyon.
Key Players and Tactics
Strasbourg’s Lineup
With Strasbourg’s aggressive rebuild, the likes of €13 million signing Emanuel Emegha, and Chelsea loanee Angelo Gabriel, will likely join star striker Habib Diallo, who netted 20 Ligue 1 goals last season.
Lyon’s Lineup
Lyon’s frontline is led by Alexandre Lacazette, who was impressive with 27 Ligue 1 goals last season. The likes of Ainsley Maitland-Niles and new recruit Skelly Alvero may feature in midfield.
Predictions
1. Win-Draw-Away Market Prediction: Draw
Considering Strasbourg’s revamped approach and promising pre-season, alongside Lyon’s recent struggles, a draw seems a likely outcome. Strasbourg’s home advantage and Lyon’s historical edge balance the scales, and the prediction is justified by Lyon’s pre-season form (WLLLL) and Strasbourg’s substantial investment in new talents.
2. Correct Score Prediction: 2-2
Both teams possess strong attacking options, and considering the significant changes on both sides, a 2-2 draw feels a fitting prediction. Strasbourg’s aggressive investment and Lyon’s experienced frontline support this outcome.
3. Goalscorer Prediction: Alexandre Lacazette
Lyon’s Alexandre Lacazette, having netted 27 goals last season, is expected to score at least once in this match. His proven goal-scoring record and critical role in Lyon’s attack make this a justified prediction.
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