Strasbourg defeated Olympique Lyonnais 3-1 on Sunday, halting Lyon’s impressive run and bolstering their own European aspirations in Ligue 1. The match, played at the Stade de la Meinau in Strasbourg, saw Joaquin Panichelli secure the victory for the hosts with a late penalty.
Lyon, aiming to equal a club record of 14 consecutive victories set by former manager Gérard Houllier, fell short despite a second-half goal from captain Corentin Tolisso. “It’s a shame. We knew we had a big opportunity tonight if we won. But we can’t afford to play like that if we wish to win matches, especially here,” Tolisso conceded to Ligue 1+.
Strasbourg’s victory was described as “logical” and moved them closer to a European qualification spot, currently sitting seventh with 34 points. They had previously secured only one point in their last three matches. Manager Pablo Fonseca acknowledged the significance of the win, stating to Ligue 1+, “Yes it pains me but we must not dramatize.”
Elsewhere in Ligue 1, Rennes enjoyed a successful debut for new manager Franck Haise, securing a 3-0 win against Auxerre. Estéban Lepaul and Mahdi Camara both scored, with Camara netting twice. This result places Rennes fifth, three points behind Olympique de Marseille, who lost to Brest on Friday evening.
Lille also ended a prolonged winless streak, defeating Angers 1-0 with a penalty converted by Olivier Giroud. This victory provides some relief for manager Bruno Genesio, who had faced increasing pressure despite receiving support from the club’s leadership. Angers remain 12th with 29 points.
Nantes also secured a crucial victory, defeating Le Havre 2-0, a result that lifts them out of the relegation zone and level on points with Auxerre. This marks only Nantes’ second home win of the season.
A late rally from Lorient saw them draw 3-3 with Nice, despite Nice holding a two-goal advantage. Lorient currently sit eighth in the league table.
