Lyon vs Angers: Ligue 1 Prediction (18.05.2025)

On 18 May 2025 at 2:00 WIB, the final round of the French Ligue 1 season will feature a match between Lyon and Angers at Groupama Stadium, Lyon. While this match holds no significant importance for the visitors, the home team is actively fighting to secure a spot in European competitions. The bookmakers list Lyon as clear favorites. Let’s analyze the current form of both teams and provide our match prediction.

Lyon

The squad coached by Paulo Fonseca has shown very inconsistent performances recently. The players were visibly affected mentally after their Europa League exit against Manchester United. Since that match, the team’s form dropped significantly, losing three of the last five league games, weakening their standing. Going into the final round, Lyon sits in 7th place, outside the European qualification zone. To advance, they must win and hope for defeats of their rivals. Strasbourg and Lille currently lead by three points but have worse goal difference.

Angers

For Angers, the end of the season brings no pressure. Their main objective is accomplished — the newly promoted side has secured their place in Ligue 1 after just one season in the second division. This was largely thanks to strong recent results, winning 3 of their last 5 matches. Before the final round, Angers comfortably holds 13th place, with a 5-point gap from the relegation zone. The team cannot rise above this position, so they will approach the final game without competitive ambitions.

Head-to-Head Stats

The last five meetings clearly favor Lyon, with 4 wins to 1. The first meeting this season ended in a confident 3-0 away victory for Lyon. The visitors dominated possession with 64% and outshot Angers on target 10 to 2.

Prediction 

We expect a home victory for Lyon. They have the motivation, home stadium advantage, better head-to-head record, and superior squad quality. The recommended bet is Lyon to win with a -1.5 handicap at odds of 1.79.