Paulo Fonseca has confirmed Lyon’s tactical setup for Tuesday’s high-stakes Champions League qualifier against Sparta Prague, scheduled for 21:00 at the Groupama Stadium. After a disappointing 1-2 loss in the first leg in Prague, the French side must overturn the deficit to progress to the next round. The Portuguese manager revealed his intention to revert to the 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing the importance of an aggressive approach.

Fonseca highlighted the return of Moussa Niakhaté to the defensive line following his suspension, alongside a striking trio of Ernest Nuamah, Loïs Openda, and Malick Fofana. The coach stressed that the team’s defensive issues in the first leg stemmed from positional errors and a lack of aggression rather than the formation itself. “We will go back to a flat four-defense to win,” Fonseca stated. “The problem in Prague wasn’t the five-at-the-back setup—it was our defensive positioning and the absence of aggression in both boxes. Our wingers are now ready, and we know we can create danger in Sparta’s half.”

Fonseca dismisses talk of revenge

While the pressure mounts on Lyon to secure a result, Fonseca remains focused on the task ahead rather than dwelling on the first leg. “Naturally, we’re disappointed with the away result,” he admitted. “The positive is that we have another match to turn things around. We need to win this one to keep our hopes alive.”

Morton embraces the return of the 4-3-3

Midfielder Tyler Morton expressed his enthusiasm for the traditional 4-3-3 system, which he believes suits his strengths. “I thrive in this setup,” Morton shared. “I know it well and can’t wait to get started. But more than the formation, the key will be aggression on the ball. We gave Sparta too much time and space in the first leg—they’re a strong team, and we respect that. Now, it’s about showing our quality. I’m very confident.”