EN DIRECT - Fenerbahçe-Lyon: OL plays a high-stakes game in Turkey against the team of Kanté and Greenwood

Olympique Lyonnais is set to play a pivotal first-leg match against Fenerbahçe in Istanbul, a crucial step in their bid to qualify for the Champions League. This encounter marks a significant opportunity for Lyon to return to Europe's premier club competition, a feat they haven't achieved since their semi-final run in 2020.

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It's party time in Istanbul.

The atmosphere in Istanbul's Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium is electric as the players prepare to take the field. Fenerbahçe boasts a star-studded lineup, including recent acquisitions like N'Golo Kanté, Mason Greenwood, and Romelu Lukaku (on the bench), alongside former PSG defender Milan Skriniar. Their starting XI features Ederson, Brown, Aké, Skriniar, Semedo, Guendouzi, Kanté, Greenwood, Talisca, Kerem, and Muriqi.

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Fenerbahçe had easily qualified in the previous round.

Lyon's coach, Paulo Fonseca, is relying on his experienced players for this high-stakes game. The team's starting lineup includes Greif, Abner, Kluivert, Niakhaté, Maitland-Niles, Morton, Tessmann, Tolisso, Fofana, Openda, and Nuamah. Notably, Malick Fofana is in the starting XI despite transfer rumors, while new signings Mads Bidstrup, Zachary Athekame, and Félix Bacher are on the bench.

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A good omen for OL.

Historically, Lyon has a strong record against Fenerbahçe, remaining undefeated in their five previous encounters, with four wins. However, the team is cautious, recalling a similar statistical advantage against Sparta Prague two weeks prior, which ultimately led to a first-leg loss. Captain Corentin Tolisso will be expected to lead his team in this important match.

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The stars are indeed present on the Fenerbahçe side.