Olympique Lyonnais prepares to face AJ Auxerre on Sunday evening in a context marked by the difficulties encountered by both teams. After an encouraging draw against Manchester United, the Lyons returned to the competition in Ligue 1, where they would have to continue their positive momentum to maintain their hopes of qualifying in the Champions League. However, this meeting is expected to be perilous, especially since the Auxerrois, almost assured of their continued existence, could approach the match with less pressure, which could make the Lyon trip more difficult than expected.

On the AJ Auxerre side, coach Christophe Pélissier faces a series of consequent absences due to injuries and suspensions, considerably weakening the strength. Several key players are declared packages, including Clement Akpa, Elisha Owusu, Hamed Junior Traoré and Han-Noah Massengo, forcing the technician to demonstrate ingenuity to make up a competitive team. Nevertheless, the potential return of the young midfielder Kévin Danois could bring some optimism and dynamism to the game.

Despite the significant absences on both teams, Olympique Lyonnais confirmed that he would not ask for a postponement of the match, unlike other clubs. This decision underlines the importance of this event for the Lyons, who will have to show serious and professional between two confrontations with Manchester United. The Auxerrois coach also suggested that young Rudy Matondo could be titularized, demonstrating the need to trust the succession in the face of a shortage of experienced players.