Hoffenheim v Lyon: Probable line-ups for Europa League meeting

Hoffenheim and Olympique Lyonnais meet at the Rhein-Neckar-Arena in the third matchday of the Europa League phase, with both sides seeking the maximum points as they pursue a place in the competition’s later rounds.

The German hosts will have to cope without Albian Hajdari, Nathan De Cat and Patrick Wimmer, who are all injured. Despite those absences, Hoffenheim have enough depth to name a competitive starting XI for the visit of Olympique Lyonnais.

Oliver Baumann is expected to start in goal, with Vladimir Coufal, Ozan Kabak, Koki Machida and Bernardo forming the defence.

Leon Avdullahu and Wouter Burger are likely to operate as the two deeper midfielders. Ahead of them, Bambase Conte, Fisnik Asllani and Adam Daghim could provide the attacking support for Tim Lemperle, who is expected to lead the line.

Hoffenheim probable XI

Goalkeeper: Oliver Baumann

Defenders: Vladimir Coufal, Ozan Kabak, Koki Machida, Bernardo

Defensive midfielders: Leon Avdullahu, Wouter Burger

Attacking midfielders: Bambase Conte, Fisnik Asllani, Adam Daghim

Striker: Tim Lemperle

Olympique Lyonnais will also be without two notable players. Nicolas Tagliafico and Mohamed Ouedraogo are unavailable for the trip to Hoffenheim.

Dominik Greif is expected to retain his place in goal after establishing himself as the undisputed starter this season. In defence, Zachary Athekame is set to feature following an impressive opening to the campaign, with his versatility also working in his favour.

The Lyon midfield is expected to include Noah Nartey, Tyler Morton and Corentin Tolisso. Further forward, Khalis Merah could be handed a starting role, providing a mobile and technically capable option in attack alongside Ernest Nuamah and Keito Nakamura.

Olympique Lyonnais probable XI

Goalkeeper: Dominik Greif

Defenders: Abner Vinicius, Ruben Kluivert, Moussa Niakhate, Zachary Athekame

Midfielders: Noah Nartey, Tyler Morton, Corentin Tolisso

Forwards: Khalis Merah, Ernest Nuamah, Keito Nakamura

The match forms part of the third round of the Europa League phase, with both teams aiming to strengthen their position and move closer to the later stages of the competition.

The published 1xbet odds make Hoffenheim the favourites at 1.90. A draw is priced at 3.70, while an Olympique Lyonnais victory is listed at 3.00.