Lyon faces sparta prague in first uefa champions league qualifier

Olympique Lyonnais will open their 2026-2027 season in style on Tuesday, August 4, as they kick off their UEFA Champions League campaign against Sparta Prague in the third qualifying round. This early European encounter marks Lyon’s first step back into the continent’s elite competition after a season-long absence.

Olympique Lyonnais seek strong start in Prague

The Rhône-Alpes side, fresh off a fourth-place finish in Ligue 1 last term, will face a stern test in the Czech capital. Despite a shaky preseason that culminated in a 4-0 friendly defeat to Betis on July 29, Paulo Fonseca’s men arrive with seven new signings, including Loïs Openda and Julien Duranville, aiming to prove their readiness for the challenges ahead.

First of many battles for Lyon this summer

A positive result in Prague would propel Lyon into the playoff round, where they could face either Fenerbahçe or Sturm Graz on August 18-19 and 25-26. Domestic duties resume shortly after, with a Ligue 1 trip to Toulouse scheduled for August 22. The club faces a demanding schedule as they bid to reclaim their place among Europe’s finest.

Where to watch the match

The highly anticipated clash kicks off at 20:00 CET. French viewers can catch the action live on Canal+, ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of Lyon’s quest to return to Champions League glory.