Thursday April 20, 20:05
Live on BT Sport 3
It's been an extraordinary week for Lyon, in so many ways. Firstly, their first-leg clash with Besiktas in France was delayed after fans spilled onto the pitch, supporters clashed and missiles were thrown. When the match began 46 minutes later, Lyon went 1-0 down at home to the Turkish champions, only to turn the game around in thrilling fashion with two late goals in three minutes. Besiktas keeper Fabri had a moment to forget, as he was caught in possession for Jeremy Morel's winner.
Then Lyon's bizarre week took another turn, as their players were twice attacked on the pitch by Bastia supporters in Corsica at the weekend. The game was officially abandoned at half-time amidst disgraceful scenes.
Lyon will now enter another hostile atmosphere, as they go to the Vodafone Arena. Besiktas fans give their team vociferous support, and it has contributed to an excellent home record. They have won ten and drawn three of their 13 home games in the Turkish Super Lig, and in European competition this season, they haven't lost any of their five games in Istanbul.
Lyon have played well since dropping down from the Champions League, but there's a fragility there that hasn't yet been punished. Roma came close in the last 16, but didn't take their chances, but I think Besiktas have the talent in attack to swing the tie in their favour. Unpredictable and outrageously skilful winger Ricardo Quaresma is back from injury, the prolific Cenk Tosun is set to lead the attack, and both Talisca and Ryan Babel have proved they can score at this level.
It's also worth noting that Lyon's away record is hardly impressive. They have won just two of their last ten away games in all competitions, and have lost six of those games. The events of the last few days are bound to be playing on their minds to some extent, and they are up against a clever coach in Senol Gunes.
This tie seems really evenly balanced to me, which is why I feel Besiktas are too big a price to qualify at 3.05.
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Back Besiktas to qualify at 3.05
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