Match Preview: Hamburger SV vs Lyon - Pre-Season Friendly
Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM EAT (East African Time) / 1:00 PM CEST (Central European Summer Time) Venue: Volksparkstadion, Hamburg, Germany (likely) Competition: Club Friendly
This Saturday sees a fascinating pre-season friendly clash as German side Hamburger SV host French giants Olympique Lyonnais. Both teams will be looking to fine-tune their squads and tactics as they prepare for the upcoming 2025/2026 season.
Head-to-Head
There is no extensive historical record of competitive matches between Hamburger SV and Olympique Lyonnais. This friendly will be a rare encounter, offering both sets of fans a unique opportunity to see their teams face off against different styles of play.
Hamburger SV - Looking to Build Momentum
Hamburger SV, recently promoted to the Bundesliga, will be eager to impress their home crowd and build confidence ahead of a challenging season in the German top flight. Their pre-season has seen mixed results so far:
A 2-1 loss to Sturm Graz
A 1-0 loss to FC Copenhagen
A 2-1 win over VfB Oldenburg
Team News: HSV has been active in the transfer market, securing the loan signing of Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz from Bayern Munich, who will be vying for the starting spot with Daniel Heuer Fernandes. They've also brought in experienced forward Yussuf Poulsen from RB Leipzig and midfielder Nicolas Capaldo from Salzburg, both of whom will be looking to make an immediate impact. Immanuel Pherai recently suffered a ligament injury, which will keep him out for a few weeks to months. Noah Katterbach, however, is back in team training after a long-term knee injury.
Lyon will be aiming to iron out any kinks and establish a strong rhythm before their Ligue 1 campaign kicks off. Their pre-season results have shown some promise:
A 0-0 draw against RWDM Brussels
A 1-0 win over FC Villefranche Beaujolais
Team News: Lyon has been in the news with various transfer rumors, including potential exits and arrivals. Youngsters like Saël Kumbedi and Enzo Molebe have received international call-ups, indicating the depth of talent within their academy. Recent reports suggest Lyon is close to signing Dutch defender Ruben Kluivert and is linked with other players to bolster their squad.
Match Outlook
This friendly provides an excellent opportunity for both managers to experiment with lineups, try new formations, and integrate new signings. While the result isn't the primary focus, a strong performance and positive momentum will be crucial for both teams as they head into their respective domestic leagues.
Expect an open game with both sides looking to attack and test their offensive capabilities. Lyon, with their Ligue 1 pedigree, might be considered slight favorites, but Hamburger SV will be highly motivated to perform well in front of their home fans and demonstrate their readiness for the Bundesliga. The battle in midfield and the sharpness of each team's attack will likely be key in determining the outcome.
