Lyon Looks to Secure Europa League Quarterfinal Spot Against FCSB

LYON, France — Olympique Lyonnais is set to host FCSB on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in the second leg of the UEFA Europa League round of 16, with kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. UK time at Parc Olympique Lyonnais. Following a 3-1 victory in Romania last week, Lyon carries a two-goal advantage into this crucial match.

Although Lyon’s lead suggests an easy progression, the first leg proved to be a hard-fought contest, with two late goals in the 86th and 89th minutes securing the win. This victory marked Lyon’s second consecutive triumph across all competitions, having previously defeated Nice 2-0 in Ligue 1 last weekend. With this momentum, Lyon sits sixth in the Ligue 1 standings, only two points behind fifth-placed Lille and fourth-placed Monaco, who are vying for European qualification.

“We know that progressing past Steaua would align us closer to our first Europa League title and direct qualification for next season’s Champions League,” said Lyon’s manager. “We are focused and motivated to finish the job at home.”

Lyon’s recent form against FCSB further adds to their confidence. Last week’s win extended their unbeaten streak against the Romanian team to five matches, which includes four victories and one draw. At home, Lyon has only lost two of their last 17 European matches, with their most recent setback being a narrow 1-0 defeat to Besiktas in October.

In stark contrast, FCSB entered this round on an eight-match unbeaten run before falling against Lyon. The Red and Blues are determined to turn the tide, with their historic struggle against French teams in mind—FCSB has never won a major European match in France. This match marks their first visit since a 2-0 loss to Lyon in 2008.

“We understand the odds are against us,” FCSB’s coach stated prior to the match. “But anything can happen in football. We’re ready to give our best effort.”

Despite facing injury challenges, FCSB will look to leverage their improved away performance in Europe, having won their last two away matches in the knockout stages. A domestic league victory against Universitatea Craiova last weekend added to their confidence, allowing them to maintain their lead in Romania’s SuperLiga.

Both teams enter the match under different circumstances, with Lyon being the favored side based on their recent performance and historical success in this fixture. Lyon’s possible lineup includes Perri, Tagliafico, and Tolisso among others, while FCSB will field players like Tarnovanu and Popescu, led by manager Fonseca, who will be present on the sidelines despite a domestic touchline ban.

Given their strong home form and a two-goal cushion from the first leg, Lyon appears well-positioned to secure their place in the Europa League quarterfinals. Fans of both teams will be eagerly awaiting this decisive clash.