Olympique Lyonnais kick off their European campaign this week as they face Sparta Prague in the first leg of the third qualifying round for the Champions League. The match, set for Tuesday evening, marks a crucial early test for Paulo Fonseca’s side as they aim to return to Europe’s premier club competition.
Kick-off time and TV details
The highly anticipated showdown will get underway at 8:00 PM local time and will be broadcast live in France exclusively on Canal+. Fans can tune in to catch all the action as Lyon seek to make a winning start to their continental journey.
Lyon’s preparation and ambitions
The Rhône-based club enters this match with mixed feelings after a subdued pre-season. Despite a heavy 4-0 loss to Real Betis in their final friendly, the squad has been bolstered by early summer signings, including forwards Loïs Openda and Julien Duranville.
The team’s determination to secure a place in the Champions League’s group stage will be evident as they face a Czech Republic side well-versed in European competition. A positive result in Prague would set the tone for a grueling campaign ahead, with domestic league action resuming just two weeks later.
What’s at stake for Lyon?
Victory against Sparta Prague would propel Lyon into the playoff round, where they could face either Fenerbahçe or Austria’s Sturm Graz in mid-August. Failure to progress would leave them consigned to the Europa Conference League, a competition they have yet to fully embrace.
The stakes extend beyond Europe, as Lyon’s league campaign begins on 22 August with a trip to Toulouse. A strong start in both competitions is essential for a club aiming to rediscover its past glories in the Champions League.