Horneland analysis: ASSE prepares for a crucial derby against Lyon

As the derby approached the Reims Stadium, ASSE coach Eirik Horneland gave a press conference on Friday, analyzing the situation and preparing for the confrontation.

Horneland began by expressing his admiration for the match between Manchester United and Olympique Lyonnais, which he followed closely. “It was really a nice game to watch. It was a tough game,” he said. He pointed out the difficulties encountered by the Lyonnais, especially after being led, and their ability to return to the score despite the expulsion of Lucas Tousseau.

The ASSE coach then expressed his respect for Olympique Lyonnais, explaining that they were a “big team” due to their journey to the quarter finals of the Europa League and their struggle for the first place in the championship. In particular, he highlighted their game qualities, including their transition game and their ability to create spaces behind the opponents’ backs, as well as the individual qualities of their players.

Regarding the potential fatigue of the Lyons, Horneland nuanced: “I am not particularly sure that they will be tired against us. There has been a week of international truce and they are in a rhythm that allows them to manage this meeting normally. We’re counting a little on their fatigue, but we’ll see how they look at us.”

The ASSE thus faced the Reims Stadium in a crucial match, and Eirik Horneland made it clear that his team was aware of the quality of the opponent and of the need to prepare rigorously.