Fri Nov 01 23:19:21 UTC 2024: ## Lille Look to Extend Winning Streak as Lyon Aim to Bounce Back
**Lille, France -** A clash of ambitions awaits at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy on Friday night as Lille, riding high on a seven-game unbeaten run, host a struggling Lyon side.
The hosts are looking to continue their resurgence under Bruno Genesio, having transformed from a team that lost four straight in late August to one that has now beaten both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. Last weekend’s dramatic derby win against Lens saw Lille climb to third in the table, just six points behind PSG at the top.
However, Lyon are a familiar foe and a potential stumbling block for Lille. Despite their recent struggles, Lyon have only lost once in their last eight meetings against Les Dogues. However, their form heading into this clash is far from ideal, with two disappointing results in the last week. A shock defeat to Besiktas in the Europa League was followed by a 2-2 draw against Auxerre in Ligue 1, leaving them seven points adrift of Lille.
Lille will be without defender Alexsandro, suspended after his booking against Monaco, adding to the absences of Mitchel Bakker and Samuel Umtiti. However, the form of David and Edon Zhegrova leaves them with plenty of attacking firepower.
Lyon, meanwhile, have a full squad available but have struggled to find consistency. Georges Mikautadze’s brace against Auxerre could see him retain his place in the starting XI, potentially pushing Said Benrahma to the bench.
Despite Lyon’s recent difficulties, they will be looking to rediscover their form against a Lille side that has established itself as a genuine title contender. However, with Lille’s impressive home form and recent dominance in this fixture, the hosts will be the favourites to claim a crucial victory.
First Piper 