This Saturday, Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will face off in the highly anticipated Coupe de France final at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Both teams have shown remarkable form leading up to this clash, setting the stage for an exciting battle.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Lyon's Journey
Lyon's season has been a tale of two halves. After a disappointing start, the team, under the guidance of Pierre Sage, turned their fortunes around spectacularly.
They secured a top-six finish in Ligue 1 and a spot in next season's Europa League. Lyon's recent form has been impressive, winning four consecutive matches to conclude their league campaign.
In the Coupe de France, Lyon defeated notable teams such as Lille and Strasbourg, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Historically, Lyon has a strong record in this competition, winning it five times, with their last triumph in the 2011-12 season.
PSG's Dominance
PSG, on the other hand, retained their Ligue 1 title with ease and are eyeing their 15th Coupe de France title.
Despite a few setbacks in the latter part of their league campaign, they ended on a high note with victories over Nice and Metz.
PSG's squad depth and quality are unmatched, making them the favourites in most domestic competitions.
Team News
Lyon's Squad
Lyon will have Alexandre Lacazette available despite his suspension-inducing yellow card against Strasbourg, as his ban will carry over to next season.
With no fresh injuries, Lyon's manager, Pierre Sage, has a full squad to choose from.
The key decision will be whether to start Anthony Lopes or Lucas Perri in goal.
PSG's Squad
PSG will welcome back several key players, including Gianluigi Donnarumma, Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, Ousmane Dembele, and Marquinhos.
However, they will be without Lucas Hernandez (ACL), Sergio Rico (head), and Presnel Kimpembe (Achilles).
Kylian Mbappe, who is expected to join Real Madrid at the end of the season, will have a final chance to shine for PSG in this match.
Predicted Lineups
Lyon: Lopes; Mata, O'Brien, Caleta-Car, Tagliafico; Caqueret, Matic, Tolisso; Cherki, Lacazette, Benrahma
PSG: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Beraldo, Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Ruiz; Dembele, Ramos, Mbappe
Match Prediction
PSG's dominance in Ligue 1 and their squad strength make them the favourites for this encounter.
While Lyon's resurgence and recent form should not be underestimated, PSG's firepower and experience are likely to see them through.
We predict a closely fought match with PSG emerging victorious, possibly with a 2-1 scoreline.
