Lyon Rolls Over Qarabag, While Mertens Sets Up Osimhen in Galatasaray Draw
Olympique Lyonnais enjoyed a comfortable victory in the Europa League on Thursday, cruising past Qarabag 4-1 in Azerbaijan. Meanwhile, Galatasaray remained unbeaten but had to settle for a 1-1 draw at AZ Alkmaar.
Fofana Shines as Lyon Secures Important Win
Malick Fofana was instrumental in Lyon’s decisive win, adding the third goal for his team in Baku. Former Seraing forward Georges Mikautadze gave the French side an early lead after just 15 minutes. That advantage doubled after the break, when Corentin Tolisso found the back of the net, setting the stage for Fofana’s impressive contribution.
Taking a precise cross from Saïd Benrahma in the 68th minute, Fofana slotted the ball home to put Lyon firmly in control. Though Mikautadze completed a brace late in the game, a consolation penalty from Juninho reguvialized Qarabag’s hopes for a moment. Fofana played 82 minutes in a commanding performance for Lyon, who remain sixth in the group with 10 points.
Late Drama in AlkmaarRESULTS
Galatasaray, led by Maarten Martens, faced a tougher challenge in Alkmaar, where they went behind early on. Sven Mijnans opened the scoring for AZ within the first two minutes, making the Dutch side’s intentions clear from the outset.
But Galatasaray wouldn’t be denied. French talent Victor Osimhen, formerly of Charleroi, rose high to meet a perfectly weighted cross from Dries Mertens just before halftime. Osimhen’s header nestled into the far corner, leveling the score.
Mertens, who played the whole match and received a yellow card in the 84th minute, was instrumental in orchestrating Galatasaray’s attack throughout the match.
Michy Batshuayi also featured prominently in the Galatasaray attack, starting alongside Osimhen for 64 minutes before being replaced. In a tense finish, AZ midfielder Kees Smit saw red after picking up two quick yellow cards in the final minutes of the game.
Although they couldn’t find a winner, the draw keeps Galatasaray undefeated in the Europa League group stage, leaving them third with 11 points. Lazio, who drew 0-0 with Ludogorets, and Athletic Bilbao, victors over Elfsborg with a resounding 3-0 score, share the top spot with 13 points apiece.
Is a draw against AZ Alkmaar a positive result for Galatasaray?
Let’s bring in John Smith, our football analyst, to discuss these exciting Europa League results.
John, welcome to the show! Lyon seems to be finding its stride in Europe. A 4-1 win away at Qarabag is no mean feat. What stood out to you in that match?
**(John Smith) :** Thanks for having me! Lyon were fantastic. Fofana really shone, but Mikautadze’s early goal set the tone. They controlled the game and showed real attacking prowess.
Excellent point about Fofana. He seems a player to watch. Now, let’s shift gears to Galatasaray. They drew 1-1 with AZ Alkmaar. Another solid result, maintaining their unbeaten run. But is a draw seen as a positive in that context?
**(John Smith):** I think Galatasaray will be happy with the point. AZ Alkmaar are a tough team at home. They would have hoped for a win, but a draw keeps them unbeaten and in good spirits. The Mertens-Osimhen connection is looking dangerous, too.
We’ll have to keep an eye on that partnership! Thanks for your insights, John.
**(John Smith):** My pleasure!