Sage's experience could help the visitors: Lyon vs Crystal Palace prediction
The second matchday of the Europa League league phase between Lyon and Crystal Palace will take place on October 15, 2026, at Groupama Stadium. Both teams opened the tournament with victories: the French side beat Anderlecht 2-1, while the English club thrashed Lech 4-0.
Lyon: the team rarely makes mistakes at home
Paulo Fonseca's side made a confident start to the French league season and sit fourth after six matchdays, just three points behind the leaders. However, Lyon head into their Europa League fixture after a 2-1 defeat to Lens, which ended a five-match unbeaten run.
The situation is far better on home soil. Lyon are unbeaten in 12 consecutive home matches in the group or league phase of the Europa League, winning seven of them. Their main concern is the absence of Lois Openda, who will be sidelined for several weeks.
Crystal Palace: improving form, but away trips remain a concern
Pierre Sage's side have noticeably improved after a difficult start. In their last six matches across all competitions, Crystal Palace have recorded four wins and one draw, while in their most recent Premier League fixture they beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 after coming from behind.
The English side have also looked confident in European competition, suffering just one defeat in their last 12 international matches. However, their away record is less convincing, with only one win in their last eight away games across all competitions.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Lyon are unbeaten in 12 consecutive home matches in the group or league phase of the Europa League.
- Crystal Palace have lost only one of their last 12 European matches.
- The English club have won just one of their last eight away matches across all competitions.
The teams could share the points: Lyon vs Crystal Palace prediction
Lyon are traditionally strong at home, but Openda's absence significantly reduces their attacking options. At the same time, Crystal Palace are gradually finding their form and have a coach who knows his former opponent extremely well.
The French side should enjoy more possession, but the visitors are capable of closing down space effectively and responding with quick attacks. With the balance of power so even, a draw looks like the most logical outcome.
