Lyon vs Laval Coupe de France Round of 16: Match Preview & Predictions
The 2025-26 Coupe de France Round of 16 brings an exciting clash as Olympique Lyonnais hosts Stade Laval at the iconic Groupama Stadium on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 7:30 PM local time. This encounter promises high-stakes drama as Lyon seeks to advance in France's prestigious knockout competition. Learn more about the Coupe de France tournament.
Table of Contents
- Match Details & Venue Information
- Team Form & Head-to-Head
- Probable Lineups & Key Players
- Match Predictions & Betting Odds
- Where to Watch Live
- Frequently Asked Questions
Match Details & Venue Information
Competition: Coupe de France (French Cup)
Round: Round of 16
Date: February 4, 2026
Kick-off Time: 7:30 PM CET
Venue: Groupama Stadium, Lyon, France
Capacity: 59,186 spectators
The match takes place at Lyon's home fortress, where they'll look to leverage their home advantage against the visiting Laval side. Discover more about Groupama Stadium.
Team Form & Recent Performance
Olympique Lyonnais enters this tie as overwhelming favorites, having demonstrated strong form in the Ligue 1 campaign. Under manager Paulo Fonseca, Lyon has showcased attacking prowess with key contributors like Pavel Šulc (2 goals in the Cup) and Afonso Moreira.
Stade Laval, managed by Olivier Frapolli, faces an uphill battle but comes with nothing to lose. Their Coupe de France journey has been inspiring, with players like Trevis Dago, Julien Maggiotti, and Malik Sellouki each netting crucial goals in earlier rounds.
Probable Starting Lineups
Lyon Expected XI (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Dominik Greif
Defenders: Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Clinton Mata, Moussa Niakhate, Abner
Midfielders: Tanner Tessmann, Tyler Morton, Noah Nartey, Pavel Šulc
Forwards: Endrick, Afonso Moreira
Notable Absences: Corentin Tolisso, Nicolas Tagliafico, Malick Fofana, Ernest Nuamah - all sidelined through injury. Check latest Lyon injury updates.
Laval Expected XI (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Mamadou Samassa
Defenders: Peter Ouaneh, Yohan Tavares, Mattéo Commaret, Layousse Samb
Midfielders: Titouan Thomas, Sam Sanna, Malik Sellouki
Forwards: Eros Maddy, Dylan Mbayo, Mamadou Camara
Missing Players: Ethan Clavreul, Ylies Aradj
Match Predictions & Betting Odds
The betting markets heavily favor Lyon with moneyline odds at -400, while Laval sits at +1100 for an upset victory. The draw is priced at +400. Explore betting strategies.
Popular Betting Markets:
- Over 2.5 Goals: -150 (strong value given Lyon's attacking strength)
- Lyon -1.5 Spread: -135
- Both Teams to Score: Moderate probability
- Asian Handicap: Lyon -1.5 goals favored
Our Prediction: Lyon to win comfortably with a 3-1 or 4-1 scoreline. Expect goals from Pavel Šulc and Endrick for the hosts. See more Cup predictions.
Where to Watch Lyon vs Laval Live
Soccer fans in the United States can catch this Coupe de France clash on:
- Fox Soccer Plus
- FOX Deportes
- beIN SPORTS (streaming option)
International viewers can check local streaming platforms for broadcast details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Lyon vs Laval kick off?
The match kicks off at 7:30 PM CET (2:30 PM ET) on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Can Laval upset Lyon in this Coupe de France tie?
While upsets happen in cup competitions, Lyon's superior squad depth and home advantage make a Laval victory unlikely. However, cup magic is always possible.
Who are Lyon's key players to watch?
Pavel Šulc (2 Cup goals), young sensation Endrick, and versatile midfielder Tyler Morton are crucial for Lyon's success.
What's at stake in this Round of 16 match?
The winner advances to the Coupe de France quarterfinals, moving one step closer to the prestigious final at Stade de France. Explore the tournament's rich history.
Final Thoughts
This Coupe de France Round of 16 encounter represents a classic David vs. Goliath narrative. While Lyon carries the favorites tag with overwhelming odds, Laval arrives with heart and determination. Cup competitions have produced countless surprises, making this matchup compelling viewing for French football enthusiasts worldwide.
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