Paulo Fonseca has confirmed Lyon will revert to their preferred 4-3-3 formation for Tuesday’s second leg of the Champions League third qualifying round at the Groupama Stadium. The Portuguese tactician emphasized the need to correct defensive positioning issues that plagued the team during their 1-2 defeat in Prague.

«We will return to a flat four-defender setup to secure victory,» Fonseca stated. «The problem in the first leg wasn’t the back five formation – with Tanner Tessmann in the center – but rather our defensive positioning and lack of aggression in both boxes. Our wingers are now fully prepared, unlike Julien Duranville and Kaïl Boudache at the first leg. We know we can create danger in Sparta’s half, but our priority must be to score first. That will make for a fiercely contested match until the final whistle.»

Three attacking options to turn the tie around

The Lyon coach confirmed the trio of Ernest Nuamah, Loïs Openda and Malick Fofana will lead the attacking line, supported by Moussa Niakhaté returning to central defense after serving a suspension. «We’re naturally disappointed with the first-leg result,» Fonseca admitted. «The positive is we have another match to turn things around and keep this competition alive. Victory would change everything.»

Tyler Morton ready for aggressive approach

Midfielder Tyler Morton expressed his enthusiasm for the 4-3-3 system, which he believes better suits his playing style. «I thrive in this formation,» Morton revealed. «I know it well and am eager to start the match. But beyond the system, the key will be our aggression on the ball. We gave Sparta too much time and space in the first leg. They’re a good team – that’s why they’re in the Champions League. We never underestimated them, but now it’s our turn to show our quality. I’m very confident.»