LILLE-VALENCIENNES: 1ST DERBY FOR FRANCO-MALIAN ADAMA SOUMAORO

The upcoming match between Lille and Valenciennes promises to be an intense northern derby in the 33rd day of Ligue 1 at the Pierre Mauroy stadium. With both teams having distinct objectives – Lille aiming for a spot in the Champions League while Valenciennes fights for survival – the stakes are high.

However, Lille will face challenges as they enter the derby without key players. Captain Rio Mavuba remains sidelined due to injury, while Franck Béria and Pape Souaré are suspended for the match. In their absence, coach René Girard will turn to Adama Soumaoro, a young defensive midfielder who will be making his debut in a Ligue 1 derby.

Despite the pressure, Soumaoro remains focused and determined, drawing on his past experiences in derby matches with the LOSC reserve team. He acknowledges the significance of the upcoming fixture and hopes to contribute to a positive outcome for his team.

Tags: Adama Soumaoro, Derby, Ligue 1, Lille, LOSC, Valenciennes