Lyon vs Auxerre Predictions, Odds & Preview – Ligue 1 25 April 2026

Match Overview

As the Ligue 1 season enters its final stretch, all eyes turn to the Groupama Stadium where Olympique Lyonnais host Auxerre on Saturday afternoon. With kick-off scheduled for 14:00 local time, this fixture represents a crucial opportunity for Lyon to strengthen their grip on third place and maintain their pursuit of Champions League qualification.

Under the guidance of Paulo Fonseca, Lyon have established themselves as genuine contenders for European football next season. Sitting third in the table with 54 points from 30 matches, they trail leaders PSG by 12 points and second-placed Lens by 9 points. While the title may be slipping out of reach, the battle for Champions League spots remains fierce, with Lyon locked on 54 points alongside fourth-placed Lille and holding just a four-point advantage over fifth-placed Rennes.

For Auxerre, managed by Christophe Pélissier, this trip to Lyon represents a different challenge entirely. Positioned 14th in the standings with 32 points from their 30 games, the Burgundy outfit have already secured their safety from relegation. With nine wins, five draws, and 16 defeats to their name, they find themselves in the comfortable mid-table territory where motivation can sometimes waver, though the opportunity to play spoiler against a European-chasing side should provide ample incentive.

Predictions Summary

Ligue 1 Standings

The current Ligue 1 table makes for fascinating reading as we approach the business end of the campaign. With just eight matches remaining after this weekend’s fixtures, every point is precious in the race for European qualification.

The tight nature of the battle for third place cannot be overstated. Lyon and Lille are level on 54 points, separated only by goal difference. Rennes lurk just four points behind, meaning any slip-up from either Lyon or Lille could see them overtaken. PSG may be running away with the title, but the real drama in Ligue 1 this season is unfolding in the chase for Champions League football.

For Lyon, this match against Auxerre represents exactly the kind of fixture they need to win if they are to maintain their European aspirations. With their final eight games likely to include tough encounters against fellow top-half sides, dropping points against a 14th-placed team would be a significant blow to their ambitions.

Team News & Squad Analysis

Olympique Lyonnais

Paulo Fonseca has assembled a squad with genuine depth and quality throughout. The Portuguese tactician has instilled a balanced approach that has seen Lyon record 16 wins from their 30 league matches, scoring 45 goals while conceding just 30.

Squad: Dominik Greif, Abner Vinícius, Moussa Niakhate, Nicolas Tagliafico, Clinton Mata, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Tanner Tessmann, Corentin Tolisso, Orel Mangala, Malick Fofana, Ernest Nuamah, Endrick, Roman Yaremchuk, Rachid Ghezzal, Pavel Sulc, Tyler Morton.

The goalkeeping department is anchored by Dominik Greif, providing reliable presence between the posts. In defence, Fonseca can call upon international-calibre operators including Moussa Niakhate and Nicolas Tagliafico, whose experience will be vital against Auxerre’s attack. Clinton Mata and Abner Vinícius offer width and energy from the full-back positions.

The midfield is where Lyon truly shine, with an embarrassment of riches at Fonseca’s disposal. Corentin Tolisso brings World Cup-winning pedigree, while Ainsley Maitland-Niles offers versatility and Premier League experience. Tanner Tessmann, Orel Mangala, Tyler Morton, and Pavel Sulc provide energy, tactical intelligence, and creativity from deeper positions.

In attack, Lyon possess genuine firepower. Brazilian sensation Endrick has been making waves with his explosive pace and clinical finishing. Roman Yaremchuk offers a physical focal point up front, while Ernest Nuamah, Malick Fofana, and Rachid Ghezzal provide width, trickery, and goal threat from the flanks.

Auxerre

Christophe Pélissier’s Auxerre arrive at the Groupama Stadium knowing they face a stern examination. With 32 points from 30 games, they have done enough to secure another season of top-flight football but will be eager to finish the campaign on a positive note.

Squad: Donovan Léon, Gideon Mensah, Sinaly Diomandé, Francisco Sierralta, Bryan Okoh, Clément Akpa, Oussama El Azzouzi, Romain Faivre, Naouirou Ahamada, Elisha Owusu, Lassine Sinayoko, Sékou Mara, Danny Namaso, Lasso Coulibaly, Kévin Danois.

Between the posts, Donovan Léon provides experience and shot-stopping ability. The defensive line features former Lyon man Sinaly Diomandé, who will have extra motivation against his old club, alongside Francisco Sierralta’s physical presence and Gideon Mensah’s industry. Bryan Okoh adds youthful exuberance to the backline.

The midfield battle will be crucial, and Auxerre have capable operators in this department. Oussama El Azzouzi and Elisha Owusu provide the defensive screen, while Romain Faivre offers creativity and set-piece expertise. Naouirou Ahamada and Lasso Coulibaly bring energy and box-to-box dynamism.

In attack, Sékou Mara and Danny Namaso lead the line, with Lassine Sinayoko providing pace and directness from wide areas. Clément Akpa and Kévin Danois offer additional options from the bench.

Head-to-Head Analysis

The historical record between these two sides suggests a competitive but ultimately favourable outlook for Lyon. In recent meetings, Lyon have emerged victorious twice, Auxerre once, with three encounters ending in draws.

Recent Meetings:

Perhaps the most relevant result is the reverse fixture earlier this season, when Lyon travelled to Auxerre and secured a convincing 3-1 victory. That result demonstrated the gulf in class between these sides and suggested that when Lyon are at their best, Auxerre struggle to contain their attacking threat.

However, the 2-2 draw at the Groupama Stadium in October 2024 serves as a warning. Auxerre proved capable of scoring twice away from home against this Lyon defence, and they will look to replicate that attacking output while tightening up at the back.

Interestingly, Auxerre’s solitary victory in recent meetings came back in February 2023, when they defeated Lyon 2-1 on home soil. This demonstrates that while Lyon are clear favourites on paper, Pélissier’s men are capable of causing an upset if the circumstances align.

Prediction & Betting Tips

Our Prediction: Lyon 3-1 Auxerre

Given the quality differential between these two squads, Lyon’s pressing need for three points in their pursuit of Champions League qualification, and their home advantage at the Groupama Stadium, we anticipate a comfortable victory for Paulo Fonseca’s side.

However, Auxerre have shown they can find the net against this Lyon defence, and with nothing to lose, they may adopt an adventurous approach that creates chances at both ends. The combination of Lyon’s attacking prowess and Auxerre’s willingness to commit players forward suggests an entertaining encounter with multiple goals.

Recommended Bets

1. Lyon to Win – 8/13
The most straightforward selection sees Lyon as heavy favourites to collect all three points. With their European ambitions on the line and a squad brimming with quality, anything other than a home victory would be a significant surprise.

2. Over 2.5 Goals – Best priced at 10/11
Both teams have reasons to attack, and the H2H record suggests goals are likely. Lyon’s 45 goals in 30 games this season demonstrates their offensive capabilities, while Auxerre’s 35-goal tally shows they can contribute to a high-scoring affair.

3. Both Teams to Score – Yes at 5/6
Auxerre have found the net in their last two visits to the Groupama Stadium, and with Sékou Mara and Danny Namaso offering threat up front, they should trouble a Lyon defence that has conceded 30 times this term.

4. Lyon to Win & Over 2.5 Goals – Enhanced odds available
For those seeking bigger returns, combining Lyon’s victory with a high-scoring match offers appealing value. The reverse fixture produced four goals, and similar entertainment could be on the cards.

Match Odds Comparison

We’ve compared the latest odds from leading UK bookmakers to help you find the best value on this Ligue 1 clash:

All odds are subject to change. Please gamble responsibly and always check the latest prices before placing your bet.

Where to Watch

This Ligue 1 fixture will be broadcast live on beIN Sports and Canal+ for viewers in France and selected international markets. UK viewers should check their usual sports broadcasters for coverage, with many matches from the French top flight available via subscription services.

Kick-off is scheduled for 14:00 local time (13:00 BST) on Saturday 25 April 2026 at the Groupama Stadium in Lyon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Lyon vs Auxerre kick off?

The match kicks off at 14:00 local time (CEST) on Saturday 25 April 2026, which is 13:00 BST for viewers in the UK and Ireland.

What is our Lyon vs Auxerre prediction?

We predict a Lyon victory, with a 3-1 scoreline looking the most likely outcome. Lyon’s quality and motivation for Champions League qualification should see them overcome an Auxerre side with little left to play for this season.

Where can I watch Lyon vs Auxerre?

The match will be broadcast live on beIN Sports and Canal+ in France. UK viewers should check BT Sport, Sky Sports, or streaming platforms for Ligue 1 coverage availability.