Openda likely out for Lyon's Europa League clash with Crystal Palace
According to several French media reports, Lyon striker Loïs Openda is expected to miss the Europa League match against Crystal Palace after coming off injured in Friday's defeat at Lens.
Olympique Lyonnais striker Loïs Openda is expected to miss the Europa League clash against Crystal Palace on Thursday, according to multiple French media reports. The forward was forced off during Friday's Ligue 1 match at Lens after a collision, and initial examinations have raised concerns about his availability.
Openda's injury and potential absence
Loïs Openda left the pitch injured during Lyon's defeat at Lens on Friday, in the opening game of the sixth round of Ligue 1. Several French outlets, including Foot National and Foot Mercato, report that the striker is likely to sit out Thursday's European fixture against Crystal Palace, scheduled for 18:45. Foot National adds that he could also miss the league match against Nice next Sunday, according to Le Progrès. So Foot, meanwhile, quotes Lyon midfielder Corentin Tolisso reflecting on the Lens game: "In the first half, they walked all over us."
A fresh blow for Lyon
The potential absence of Openda comes on the heels of another major setback for the club. As reported by L'Équipe and RMC Sport, Mohamed Ouédraogo suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during training and will be sidelined for several months. The 23-year-old had made one Ligue 1 appearance this season, according to Maxifoot. Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb also confirmed the news, describing it as bad news for Lyon.
Uncertain outlook
Lyon have not yet provided a definitive update on the severity of Openda's injury, with clubs awaiting further assessments. The Europa League meeting with Crystal Palace on Thursday now carries added weight for a side already dealing with multiple absences.
