Lyon vs Marseille Prediction & Betting Tips (31 August)

Sunday’s clash between Lyon and Marseille promises to be a firecracker in the early stages of the Ligue 1 season. Lyon, fresh off a commanding 3-0 win over Metz, are riding high with two wins from two and a defense yet to concede. Despite off-field turbulence earlier this year, including a temporary relegation scare, Les Gones have steadied the ship under Jorge Maciel, who continues to deputize for Paulo Fonseca during his touchline ban. The midfield has been reshaped with Tyler Morton arriving from Liverpool, while Ainsley Maitland-Niles adds dynamism down the right. However, Lyon will be without Ernest Nuamah and Nemanja Matic, both sidelined due to injury and suspension respectively.

Marseille, meanwhile, arrive with a potent attack but a dressing room still recovering from internal strife. Roberto De Zerbi’s side thrashed Paris FC 5-2 last weekend, showcasing the firepower of Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Yet, the fallout from a violent altercation between Adrien Rabiot and Jonathan Rowe has cast a shadow over the squad. Both players have been transfer-listed, with Rowe already sealing a move to Bologna. Despite the drama, Marseille’s recruitment has been aggressive: Facundo Medina joins from Lens, and Timothy Weah adds flair to the flanks. De Zerbi remains committed to the club’s long-term vision, brushing off interest from Serie A giants.



On the tactical front, Lyon’s compact midfield and high corner count could be decisive. Their ability to control tempo and exploit set pieces has been a hallmark in the opening fixtures. Marseille, though, boast the league’s highest goal tally so far and will look to stretch Lyon’s backline with pace and precision. Expect Greenwood to drift between the lines, while Aubameyang lurks for the killer touch. Lyon’s back four, anchored by Jake O’Brien and boosted by new keeper Dominik Greif, will need to be flawless to contain the threat.

Prediction-wise, the edge tilts toward Lyon. Their defensive solidity and home form give them a slight advantage, especially with Marseille’s away record still shaky. A 2-1 scoreline feels fitting: Lyon to strike early, Marseille to respond through Greenwood, and a late winner from Corentin Tolisso or Malick Fofana to seal it. With both teams brimming with talent and tension, this fixture could be a defining moment in their campaigns.

• Summary: Olympique Lyonnais is going head to head with Olympique de Marseille starting on 31 Aug 2025 at 18:45 UTC at Groupama Stadium stadium, Lyon city, France. The match is a part of the Ligue 1 .