Sparta Prague to field without captain for Champions League return against Olympique Lyonnais
The Czech side, fresh from a 2-1 victory over Lyon in the third qualifying round first leg, will line up largely unchanged as they seek to secure progression to the next stage of Europe’s elite competition.
Captain’s exit leaves void ahead of decisive clash
After five seasons in Prague, club captain Lukas Haraslin completed his move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Fateh just days after the 2-1 win over Lyon. The transfer, reportedly worth around €5 million, follows the earlier departure of forward Jan Kuchta to Legia Warsaw in Poland.
This unexpected exit during the transfer window has forced Brian Priske, the Danish head coach, to reshuffle his squad. With Haraslin absent, the focus now turns to his replacement, Josimar Alcocer, who impressed in the first leg.
Priske targets consistent performance in Lyon
«We have a genuine opportunity to progress if we replicate our first-leg performance,» Priske stated. «Lyon arrived to face a team playing its first competitive match of the season. That’s never straightforward. They haven’t played since then, which could work in our favour. Consistency will be key, particularly in midfield.»
The Czech outfit will be aiming to build on their solid away display when they host Lyon at the Groupama Stadium. With a largely unchanged lineup expected, Sparta Prague will be looking to make the most of their home advantage in this high-stakes encounter.
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