RC Lens and Olympique de Marseille reveal expected line-ups for Ligue 1 clash

On Sunday 8 November 2026, RC Lens will host Olympique de Marseille at Bollaert in the 10th round of Ligue 1, with kick-off scheduled for 19:45 GMT. Both sides are expected to adopt contrasting systems for the meeting.

RC Lens

RC Lens are likely to set up in a 3-6-1 formation, with the shape designed to strengthen the midfield and disrupt Olympique de Marseille’s passing routes.

The home side are expected to use three central defenders, supported by two wing-backs providing width. A compact four-man midfield should help Lens protect the centre of the pitch, win possession higher up the field and transition quickly.

F. Ivanovic is set to operate as the lone striker and will be the main focal point in attack, tasked with holding the ball up and testing the Olympique de Marseille defence.

RC Lens probable XI

Goalkeeper: Robin Risser

Defenders: Ruben Aguilar, Samson Baidoo, K. Antonio

Midfielders: M. Skoras, Mirkael Cuisance, A. Haidara, M. Udol, F. Thauvin, T. Hazard

Forward: F. Ivanovic

Olympique de Marseille

Olympique de Marseille are expected to use a 4-5-1 system, offering a balance between defensive security and control of the midfield.

The visitors should line up with four defenders behind a mobile five-man midfield. That unit will look to press high, create numerical advantages and dictate possession, while the single striker provides a fixed option at the top of the formation.

The Phoceens are also expected to move the ball forward quickly when possession is regained, with the aim of imposing their tempo and creating opportunities at Bollaert.

Olympique de Marseille probable XI

Goalkeeper: Jeffrey De Lange

Defenders: K. Bezahaf, CJ Egan-Riley, Nayef Aguerd, U. Garcia

Midfielders: Tim Weah, G. Kondogbia, P. Højbjerg, Himad Abdelli, Igor Paixao

Forward: Amine Gouiri

The fixture will be Olympique de Marseille’s 10th Ligue 1 match of the season. The pre-match odds listed are 2.95 for an Olympique de Marseille victory, 3.60 for a draw and 2.05 for an RC Lens win.