Europa League Showdown: Struggling Young Boys Host High-Flying Lyon
A pivotal UEFA Europa League clash is set as Young Boys Bern host an in-form Lyon side. The home team is in desperate need of points to secure a knockout phase play-off spot, while the visitors, Lyon, have already established a commanding lead and aim to extend their winning streak. This encounter holds significant implications for both clubs' European aspirations.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This match marks the seventh fixture of the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League league phase. Young Boys Bern currently sit 21st in the league phase table with 9 points from six games (3 wins, 0 draws, 3 losses, 8 goals scored, 12 conceded, -4 goal difference). They are in desperate need of points to secure a knockout phase play-off spot, as only teams ranked 9th to 24th advance to the next stage. In contrast, Olympique Lyonnais are flying high at the top of the standings with 15 points from six games (5 wins, 0 draws, 1 loss, 13 goals scored, 3 conceded, +10 goal difference). Lyon has all but secured a play-off spot and are well-positioned for a direct qualification to the Round of 16.
Recent Form
Young Boys Bern are currently experiencing a dismal run of form, with four losses in their last five official matches. This includes a 1-3 defeat to Lausanne, a 0-3 loss to Lugano, and a heavy 2-6 defeat against Grasshopper in the Swiss Super League. While they have secured Europa League home victories against Ludogorets and Lille, their overall recent performance suggests a challenging period. In stark contrast, Lyon is in scintillating form, boasting a six-match winning streak across all competitions. Their last five official matches have all been victories: a 2-1 win against Brest, a 1-2 win against Lille in the Coupe de France, a 1-3 win over Monaco, a 3-0 win against Saint-Cyr Collonges in the Coupe de France, and a 1-0 win against Le Havre. This strong momentum positions them as clear favorites for the upcoming clash.
Key Players & Injury News
Young Boys Bern face a lengthy absentee list for this crucial fixture. Defender Tanguy Zoukrou is suspended after receiving a red card against Lille. Key players Facinet Conte (muscle injury), Jaouen Hadjami (ankle injury), Ebrima Colley (ankle injury), and Mats Seiler are all sidelined. Additionally, midfielder Edimilson Fernandes is out for several months with a serious muscle and tendon injury in his left calf. Their attacking hopes will likely rest on leading scorer Chris Bedia, who has 13 league goals, and Christian Fassnacht, with 12 goals across all competitions. Lyon is largely at full strength, but will be without Malick Fofana (ankle injury, out until late January), Ernest Nuamah (cruciate ligament injury, out until early February), and Rachid Ghezzal (groin injury, out until early February). Notably, Corentin Tolisso, Lyon's top scorer in Europe with four goals, returns after serving a domestic suspension.