Third qualifying round opener: Lyon faces Sparta Prague in european clash
Olympique Lyonnais kicks off its 2026-2027 European campaign on Tuesday evening with a high-stakes third qualifying round first leg against Sparta Prague. The match, set to take place at the ePET ARENA, marks a crucial step for Lyon as they aim to progress further in the Champions League while Sparta Prague seeks to extend their continental ambitions. For either team, a loss would mean a swift transition into the Europa League for the upcoming season.
The Czech side, runners-up in the domestic league last season, have shown resilience in European competitions recently. They reached the group stage in 2024 and advanced to the Round of 16 in the Conference League this year. However, their history in the Champions League qualifiers is less encouraging, with four defeats in their last five attempts at this stage. Sparta Prague’s overall record against French clubs is also telling: two wins, three draws, and eleven losses. In stark contrast, Lyon boasts an impressive tally of eight victories, two draws, and just two defeats against Czech opponents.
Historical head-to-head encounters between the two clubs further highlight Lyon’s dominance. Previous meetings have consistently favored the French side, including a resounding 5-0 home victory in 2005 and a 3-0 win in 2021. While away goals no longer apply in case of a draw, the stakes remain high as this is a knockout tie. Loïs Openda, Lyon’s headline summer signing from Juventus on a season-long loan, has already netted seven goals in the Champions League and will be eager to guide his new team past this initial hurdle toward a potential playoff against Fenerbahçe or Sturm Graz.
Where to watch the match live?
The duel between Sparta Prague and Olympique Lyonnais is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, at 20:00 CET. Fans can catch the live action through a free streaming service on sports.orange.fr, while a detailed broadcast will also be available on Canal+. Whether you’re following from France or abroad, these options ensure comprehensive coverage of the match.
