After suffering a 0-2 defeat to Slavia Prague in their first preseason outing on Saturday, Olympique Lyonnais concluded a three-game winning streak. The club is now preparing for a challenging path in the Champions League third qualifying round, with matches scheduled for August 4 or 5 (first leg) and August 11 (second leg). As seeded teams, the Gones boast the highest UEFA coefficient (65.750) among the potential opponents in this pathway, which could lead them to the league phase in just four matches—including a playoff tie on August 18-19 and 25-26 if they advance.

A historically tough route to the Champions League

Looking back at the past thirteen seasons since this format was introduced, only two Ligue 1 teams have successfully navigated it: AS Monaco in 2016 and Lille OSC in 2024. Unfortunately, OL knows this path all too well—they suffered heartbreak in August 2013, falling 0-2 on aggregate to Real Sociedad in the playoff round.

Belgian powerhouse Union Saint-Gilloise looms as a major threat

With a UEFA coefficient of 48,000, Union Saint-Gilloise stands out among the potential opponents. The Belgian champions of 2025 and 2026 domestic cup winners have already made their mark in the Champions League last season, narrowly missing the Round of 16 on goal difference. Their recent form includes a 2-3 defeat to Marseille in December, showcasing their competitive edge.

Defensively organized in a 5-3-2 formation, the Brussels-based side has maintained stability in their squad, with goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen (2.04 m) and winger Anan Khalaili—whose transfer to Inter Milan fell through due to failed medical tests—being notable exceptions. Their preseason record includes victories over Romanian and Danish opponents, though a recent draw with PSV Eindhoven (3-3, followed by a 0-4 loss) raises questions about their readiness.

Sparta Prague and NEC Nijmegen: familiar yet formidable challenges

Czech side Sparta Prague, with a UEFA coefficient of 38,250, presents an aggressive style of play. Their physical approach and tactical discipline could pose significant difficulties for OL, especially after Paulo Fonseca’s men struggled against Slavia Prague last weekend.

Meanwhile, NEC Nijmegen, the Dutch third-place finishers with a coefficient of 13,585, offers a contrasting challenge. Their direct and physical style may test Lyon’s defensive resilience.

Sturm Graz vs. Hearts: an unpredictable tie

The final potential opponent will emerge from the Austrian Sturm Graz and Scottish Hearts clash. The Austrian champions (coefficient 26,000) face the Edinburgh side, runners-up in the 2025-26 Scottish Premiership. The winner of this tie will bring a unique dynamic to the third qualifying round.

With key players like Malick Fofana (ankle) and Moussa Niakhaté (suspended) unavailable, Olympique Lyonnais must address defensive vulnerabilities before the upcoming fixtures. Their preseason has been marred by eight conceded goals in four matches, signaling a need for tactical adjustments.