For the opening of the 34th day in Ligue 1, Lille’s coach Rudi Garcia fielded a conventional starting lineup against Sochaux at Bonard. The attacking trio comprised Rodelin, Kalou, and Payet, while the return of Mavuba didn’t alter the midfield dynamics, with Gueye still getting the nod over Pedretti. Sochaux had a history of performing well against top Ligue 1 teams, having defeated the top four clubs. Lille, currently in 5th place, aimed to avoid being the next big club to face an upset. The lineups for both teams were:
Lille:
- Elana
- Béria
- Basa
- Chedjou
- Digne
- Balmont
- Gueye
- Martin
- Rodelin
- Kalou
- Payet
Sochaux:
- Pouplin
- Sauget
- Kanté
- Carlao
- Roussillon
- Lopy
- Doubaï
- Boudebouz
- Nogueira
- Bakambu
- Sio
