Next stop for Olympique Lyonnais (OL) on their Coupe de France journey – the semi-finals, where they face off against Valenciennes. A thrilling clash is expected, just a year on from their disheartening loss to Nantes at this very stage.
Match Details
Mark your calendar for April 2nd, as that's when the match is set for kickoff at 20:45. The Groupama Stadium will serve as the battlefield. The person in charge of maintaining order on the pitch will be referee Stéphanie Frappart.
Final Destination
OL have their sights set on a final showdown in May at Stade Pierre Mauroy. Why not the iconic Stade de France? The answer lies in the preparations for the much-awaited Paris Olympics, causing it to be unavailable.
Worried you'll miss the match? Don't be. Tune into beIN Sports 1, the match broadcaster. However, be aware that it is a paid channel.
Lineup Predictions
Wondering who'll be on the pitch? The expected starting eleven for OL includes Perri, Mata, O'Brien, Caleta-Car, Tagliafico, Caqueret, Matic, Mangala, Nuamah, Lacazette, and Benrahma.
About Valenciennes
Despite current struggles that have them rooted at the bottom of L2, Valenciennes have clawed their way to the semi-finals. Their place in the league next season is shaky at best with fears of relegation to the National league looming large.
Their journey to the semi-finals has seen them conquer amateur clubs like Rouen and Saint-Priest. The team's likely starting eleven consists of Louchet, Sabanovic, Kayi Sanda, Woudenberg, Basse, Masson, Bansé, Hamache, Knockaert, Oyewusi, Doucouré.
This is only their second foray into the final stages of the Coupe de France, a feat they last achieved way back in 1951.