Lyon have a crucial match at home on Tuesday night. They have lost the first game two-1 in Prague, and they must hold on to this one if they are to have a chance of progressing in the Champions League.
What Happened at the first leg?
Sparta came back to win in the Czech Republic. It was at the half-time mark that Lyon actually came up with the opportunity, when Sparta's Martin Suchomel netted an own goal. But Sparta fought back and Matěj Ryneš scored to make it level in the 60th minute. The Lyon then squandered a massive opportunity to retake the lead when captain Corentin Tolisso went on the penalty when Sparta got the better of them just a few minutes later, beating them 2-1 with a John Mercado header to the side.
What Lyon Need to Do
Lyon need at least one clear goal to go into extra-time or two goals in normal time to win outright. The new UEFA rules means that away goals are no more and if it's a 1-0 victory, it's simply going to extra time.
New signing Loïs Openda played a big part in Lyon's first leg goal and will surely play a major role in their attack in this second leg. This is likely to be a form change for manager Paulo Fonseca, as he experimented in a slightly different formation in Prague but it did not work well.
What Sparta Need to Do
Sparta have only to temper a big loss. So if they lose a draw or just a close 0-1 game, they're good. In their first game, they demonstrated the ability to play well in defence and to be quick on the break.
Our Prediction
Lyon will be determined from the get-go as they are at home and have a need to score. But, the Spartans showed that they can hold their own in pressure situations and score on the break so this should be a game to watch.
So, let's make a prediction: Lyon 2-1 Sparta Prague (but Sparta go through after extra time).
Confidence: Low - difficult to determine
Responsible gambling note
It is difficult to make a two-legged qualifying decider and two-legged qualifiers are infamous for doing just that. Betting is optional, so place bets only with the money you can afford to lose. If gambling ever ceases to be fun BeGambleAware (UK) can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lyon to do to pass through?
They must win by two clear goals to advance or by the same number of goals to play extra time.
Who was the victor of the first game?
Sparta Prague defeated in Prague 2-1. Lyon got an own goal in the game but Sparta rallied to win it.
Who plays the winner next?
The winner moves on to the play-off round of the Champions League, where they will play Fenerbahce or Sturm Graz.