CSKA Moscow vs Olympique Lyon
UEFA Europa League
Date: Thursday, 8 March 2018
Kick-Off at 18:00 UK
Venue: VEB Arena (Moscow).
CSKA Moscow have somehow managed to survive a stern Red Star test in the previous round as Alan Dzagoev’s lone goal made all the difference in two legs. The Serbian side did have two terrific chances to make it all square in the dying minutes of the rematch at VEB Arena, but the Russian giants were lucky to keep their net untouched and book their place in the R16.
Next up for Viktor Goncharenko and his men are French heavyweights Olympique Lyon who went past Villarreal 4-1 on aggregate after clinching wins in both of their last 32 round legs. The French outfit has been proclaimed as one of the shadow favourites, but their form has been all but promising ahead of this tie.
Bruno Genesio’s men have picked up only three points in last six league outings to lose ground on the likes of Monaco and Olympique Marseille in the battle for the top three finish in Ligue 1. Lyon’s main problems appear at the back here the Kids just don’t seem capable of keeping things tight and CSKA’s attacking line should have room to create in the final third here.
The host have generally had a dismal campaign in their domestic affairs, but they got off to a victorious start of the second part of the season beating Ural 1-0 at home last weekend. Much like the case was with their clash against Red Star, it was Alan Dzagoev who bagged the only goal of the game just before the hour-mark.
CSKA Moscow vs Olympique Lyon: Head-to-head
This will only be the first head to head clash between these two sides.
CSKA Moscow vs Olympique Lyon: Prediction
CSKA have easily lost home outings against both Manchester United and Basel before beating Benfica 2-0 in the groups phase of Champions League.
Nonetheless, we have to respect the fact they seem to be much tougher to break down of late. Given that Lyon are currently going through a tough period in Ligue 1, we’d not be surprised to see the hosts taking advantage of the momentum and getting the result in the first leg in front of their fans.
Apart from backing CSKA Moscow, we’ll go with in-form Alan Dzagoev to keep his fine form going and find the back of the net past the struggling defense of Lyon’s.
CSKA Moscow vs Olympique Lyon: Bet Tips
CSKA Moscow or Draw Double Chance @ 1.50
Alan Dzagoev to score anytime @ 3.75
