Lyon and Reims will kick off Sunday’s French Ligue 1 action at the Groupama Stadium with both sides eager to turn things around.
This matchup presents a prime opportunity for one of them to break their recent slump in what promises to be a closely fought encounter.
Lyon have struggled in 2025, managing just one win across all competitions, a narrow 1-0 win over Montpellier in early January. They have since gone on a seven-game winless run, leading to the dismissal of Pierre Sage and the appointment of Paulo Fonseca. The new manager will be eager to secure his first victory after a disappointing 3-2 loss to Marseille on his debut.
Despite their poor form, Lyon remain in contention for a UEFA Champions League spot, sitting just five points behind fourth-placed Lille. They boast a strong home record, winning three of their last four Ligue 1 matches at Groupama Stadium.
Reims are without a win in their last nine Ligue 1 matches, a run that led to the sacking of Luka Elsner, with Samba Diawara stepping in as interim coach. They were beaten 2-1 at home by Nantes last time out in the league before progressing to the quarter-finals of the Coupe de France on penalties after a 0-0 draw in normal time.
While Reims have performed well in the Coupe de France, their league form remains concerning, especially as they sit just four points above the relegation zone. The visitors have also not been convincing on the road and are winless in five of their last six matches in all competitions.
How the bookies view it: Lyon with the edge
Lyon have the edge according to the bookies, with a home win set at 4/9 with BoyleSports. A win for Reims is valued at 4/1 while BoyleSports are offering odds of 10/3 for a draw.
Head to head: Advantage Lyon
Lyon have an 8-6 advantage with seven draws from 21 previous matches against Reims. However, the last two meetings have ended in draws, with both teams battling to 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture back in November.
Players to watch: Vintage Lacazette
Alexandre Lacazette remains Lyon’s main attacking threat, having scored nine times in all competitions this season. The striker often makes a difference for the hosts and is priced at 11/10 to add to his tally.
Reims' standout performer, Keito Nakamura, has netted eight goals this season. The forward is priced at 3/1 to get on the scoresheet once again.
Possible line-ups
Lyon have minimal injury concerns, with Malick Fofana set to miss the match due to a hip issue. Ainsley Maitland-Niles could come in at right-back after sitting out the defeat at Marseille while Lacazette should lead the line once again.
Reims, on the other hand, are dealing with multiple absences with Abdoul Kone, Teddy Teuma and Mohammed Daramy all sidelined. However, Joseph Okumu is back in contention after serving his suspension for a red card against Nantes.
Lyon: Perri; Tagliafico, Niakhate, Mata, Maitland-Niles, Tolisso, Matic, Veretout, Nuamah, Lacazette, Cherki
Reims: Diouf; Akieme, Kipre, Okumu, Buta, Atangana, Patrick, Kone, Nakamura, Diakite, Ito
Anything else catch the eye?
There were over 3.5 goals in Lyon’s previous fixture and a repeat is priced at 13/10 with BoyleSports, who are also offering 1/2 for over 2.5 goals. Both teams have scored in the last two meetings and a similar outcome is priced at 6/10 with BoyleSports.
Four of the last five games involving Lyon have produced over 9.5 corners and a repeat is pegged at 3/4 with BoyleSports. The hosts are priced at minimal odds for a straight victory, so a win and over 2.5 goals can be considered for more value at 21/20.
This French Ligue 1 match between Lyon and Reims will be played on Feb 9, 2025 and kick off at 14:00. Check below for our tipsters best Lyon vs Reims prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
