Brazilian forward Endrick expressed to AFP his belief that Olympique Lyonnais can cause an upset when they face off against French and European champions Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 on Sunday.
The encounter, set to take place at PSG’s Parc des Princes, holds significant implications for both the title race and Lyon’s ambitions to secure a Champions League spot for next season.
“I know everyone will label them as the favourites, but we’ve previously overcome other so-called favourites,” commented Endrick, who is on loan from Real Madrid, in remarks relayed to AFP late on Friday by his public relations team.
PSG head into the match in excellent form, standing just one point ahead at the top of Ligue 1, and having reached the Champions League semi-finals following a comprehensive 4-0 aggregate win over Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions.
Despite Lens narrowing PSG’s lead with a win on Friday, the Parisians still hold two games in hand over their surprising title rivals ahead of the clash with Lyon.
As the season nears its climax, the Parisian side is intent on replicating their impressive 2024/25 campaign, wherein they claimed the Ligue 1 title and captured the Champions League trophy for the very first time.
“It’s going to be a challenging match. The most prestigious title in Europe still belongs to them, and they boast the Ballon d’Or winner (Ousmane Dembélé) in their ranks, alongside several players who will feature in the World Cup,” Endrick added.
‘Back to winning form’
Lyon currently occupy fifth place in Ligue 1 with 51 points but trail fourth-placed Marseille by just one point, who hold the last Champions League qualifying position.
At 19, Endrick is keen to regain the stunning form he displayed upon his arrival at Lyon in January from Real Madrid, aiming to get more playing time and secure his spot in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.
The young talent, who advanced through the youth ranks of Palmeiras in Brazil, had an explosive start in France, including a hat-trick in a 5-2 victory over Metz.
However, his form has since diminished.
After netting five goals in his initial five games, he has found the back of the net just once in his last 11 matches across all competitions.
This dip in form for the Brazilian has coincided with Lyon’s tough stretch, although they managed to return to winning ways last Sunday, clinching a victory over Lorient, where Endrick began on the bench.
“We’re back to winning ways, and our goal is to secure a place in the Champions League,” Endrick remarked.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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