Nice — Lyon : Match Preview and Prediction for October 18,2025

Nice’s Early Season Struggles

Nice, under Franck Haise, has experienced a rather sluggish start to the current season. The ‘Red and Blacks’ undertook a significant squad overhaul but immediately faltered in the Champions League qualifiers against Benfica (losing 0-2 in both legs). Consequently, Nice finds itself in a surprisingly low league position, especially considering the ambitious aspirations of the Côte d’Azur club in recent years.

Recent Results and Injury Woes for Nice

The week leading up to the international break was no different. First, the French side suffered their second defeat in the Europa League, losing 1-2 to Domenico Tedesco’s Fenerbahçe. This was followed by a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Adi Hütter’s Monaco. Against Monaco, Nice even held a 2-0 lead during the match, but Abdi’s red card ultimately led to a draw. In addition to the suspended Abdi, Nice will be without Bombitto, Moffi, Abdel Monem, Ndombele, and Ndshamiye against Lyon – the host’s injury list has significantly lengthened during this international hiatus.

Lyon’s Strong Start to the Season

Paulo Fonseca’s Lyon has had a rather impressive start to the season. Had it not been for the 1-2 home defeat to Toulouse just before the international break, everything would have been perfect. As it stands, ‘Les Gones’ remain 4th in the French championship, having secured 5 victories in their last 7 matches.

Lyon’s European Form and Squad Depth

However, in the Europa League, things are perfect with two wins from two matches. The team generally plays an attacking brand of football and has achieved 7 victories in 9 games since the start of the season. The break certainly didn’t hinder the visitors from catching their breath and continuing their fight to return to the Champions League next season. For the match against Nice, Lyon will be without Deschamps, Mangala, and Nuamah, but these are considerably less significant losses compared to their opponent’s injury concerns.