Lyon held by Angers as winless run continues

Olympique Lyonnais extended their winless run in all competitions to nine games, as they were held by a valiant SCO Angers side on Sunday afternoon.

A fall from grace for Fonseca's side

It was only a few weeks ago that Lyon looked to be one of the favourites to secure a podium spot. By mid-February, OL were the in-form side in Europe, having gone on an incredible 13-game winning streak in all competitions. That run was halted by Strasbourg, and OL have not won since.

This was OL's ninth game without a win, and their sixth without a win in Ligue 1 McDonald's. There was hope going into this game, however. Angers have not been in a fine vein of form either, with Alexandre Dujeux's side losing all of their last six games in Ligue 1 McDonald's heading into this one.

That unwanted run was brought to an end at the Stade Raymond Kopa after a game of few chances. OL struggled to break down a stubborn Angers defence that remained disciplined and organised throughout, which meant that the away side's possessional and territorial dominance never converted into clear chances.

Defences triumph at the Stade Raymond Kopa

Ainsley Maitland-Niles had the only shot on target for Les Gones in the first half as Angers rightly grew in confidence as the game progressed. It wasn't until the second half that Hervé Koffi was truly tested in the Angers goal, as he turned a Corentin Tolisso effort around the corner (48').

But more chances weren't forthcoming. The rhythm of the game dropped as OL tried and failed to find breaches in Le Sco's firm defensive block. There wouldn't be any more shots on target for OL, whilst Angers would register just one of their own on a day where defences certainly triumphed.

The result does not suit OL, however. Lille, Rennes, and Strasbourg, all of whom are also in the race for European qualification, all won during this gameweek, whilst Marseille and Monaco face off later on Sunday evening. Angers, meanwhile, remain comfortably midtable and distanced from the relegation battle.

The Stat: 48

OL, after 28 matchdays in Ligue 1 McDonald's, have the exact same number of points as they did at the same stage last season (48). That is despite the departures of some key players over the summer, notably Alexandre Lacazette, Rayan Cherki, and Lucas Perri, all of whom played crucial roles in the club's Europa League qualification last season.

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