Wolfsburg vs OL Lyonnes: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 24 March 2026
VfL Wolfsburg
OL Lyonnes
The first leg of the Women's Champions League quarterfinal between German side Wolfsburg and French powerhouse Lyon will take place on Tuesday, March 24th, at the Volkswagen Arena. This clash is widely regarded as a true European classic, featuring the two most decorated clubs in the tournament’s history.
Match preview
Under the guidance of Stephan Lerch, Wolfsburg have had an up-and-down European campaign, but the team entered the playoffs in peak condition. The Wolves finished ninth in their group, then confidently advanced through the playoff round in February, where they faced Italian giants Juventus. On home turf, the Germans traditionally rely on their athleticism and set-piece prowess. The legendary Alexandra Popp remains their main attacking threat, and her experience in decisive Champions League matches could be a game-changer.
Squad-wise, the hosts are in great shape. The medical staff has confirmed that all key players are fit, including creative midfielder Vivien Endemann and the ever-reliable Caitlin Dijkstra at the heart of defense. Wolfsburg know that building a lead in the first leg is vital, as the return trip to France will be a far tougher challenge. Lerch is likely to opt for an aggressive 4-3-3 formation with high pressing, aiming to disrupt Lyon’s build-up play from the start.
Lyon continue to dominate the European stage, finishing second in the league phase of the current campaign. The French giants, managed by Spanish coach Jonatan Giráldez, display a textbook attacking style based on technical superiority. Lyon are one of the tournament’s most prolific sides so far, and their winning streak across all competitions has already lasted over a month. For Les Fenottes, the quarterfinal is just another stepping stone towards yet another trophy, and they arrive in Germany full of confidence.
Lyon’s squad depth allows them to rotate without any drop in quality, making them less vulnerable to injuries or suspensions. Ada Hegerberg and Kadidiatou Diani are in top form. Giráldez will surely focus on controlling the midfield and unleashing his stars’ individual brilliance in the final third.
Key facts and head-to-head
- Wolfsburg are on a four-match winning streak across all competitions.
- Wolfsburg have scored first in their last seven matches in all competitions.
- Lyon, meanwhile, have won ten matches in a row.
- Lyon are unbeaten in their last 37 matches across all competitions.
- Lyon have won each of the last seven head-to-head encounters with Wolfsburg.
- These teams already met earlier this Champions League season in the group stage, where Lyon claimed a 3-1 victory.
Probable lineups
- Wolfsburg: Johannes - Bjelde, Dijkstra, Bergsvand, Levels - Kielland, Minge, Popp - Huth, Endemann, Beerensteyn
- Lyon: Endler - Lawrence, Syrstad Engen, Renard, Bacha - Berta Egurrola, Dumornay, Yohannes - Diani, Chawinga, Hegerberg
Prediction
We’re in for a clash of philosophies: German discipline versus French flair. Lyon look the stronger side on paper and in current form, but Wolfsburg at home are a formidable challenge for any favorite. Given that this is only the first leg, both teams are unlikely to go all-out from the opening whistle. Still, with so much attacking talent on display, goals at both ends seem almost inevitable. My prediction: Both teams to score – Yes.
