Outstanding performance from the midfielder with one goal and two assists in the victory against Eintracht.
Lyon took a giant leap towards securing direct qualification to the knockout stage of the Europa League with a 3-2 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, who until now were undefeated in the second-tier European competition, thanks to a stellar performance from Rayan Cherki.
Burdened by financial problems that could lead to administrative relegation by the end of the season, the Lyon team has found a way out on the pitch. In fact, since the National Directorate of Control and Management (DNCG), the financial watchdog of French football, publicly announced the threat of relegation on January 15, Pierre Sage’s side has not tasted defeat.
Read more:
Rangers 1-1 Tottenham: Match Highlights and Player Ratings in Thrilling Europa League Encounter
Moreover, Lyon has not only won its last three matches, but has done so convincingly, as evidenced by the eleven goals that ‘les gones’ have scored in their last three encounters.
This upward trend would be inexplicable without the step forward taken by midfielder Rayan Cherki, who seems to have regained the impressive form he displayed two seasons ago, when the French international was in the sights of top clubs across Europe.
As he demonstrated this Thursday against Eintracht Frankfurt, Cherki not only netted the opening goal for the French side but was also instrumental in all the dangerous actions generated by the team.
This offensive flow did not prevent Olympique Lyon, who hit the woodwork twice, from falling behind on the scoreboard, as Ansgar Knauff capitalized on the first opportunity for Eintracht to make it 1-0 after eighteen minutes.
The goal, rather than dampening the spirits of the hosts, fueled the ambition of Sage’s men, who leveled the contest nine minutes later, in the twenty-seventh minute, with a goal from Cherki who deflected a shot from outside the box by Corentin Tolisso into the net.
Read more:
Lyon Secures Crucial Win Against Eintracht Frankfurt in Europa League
Lyon had chances to turn the game around before the halftime break, but the 2-1 did not come until five minutes into the second half on a counter led by Cherki, which was capped off by young Belgian striker Malick Fofana.
Rayan Cherki also played a part in the team’s third goal, scored by Ghanaian winger Ernest Nuamah, who spectacularly made it 3-1 in the 54th minute, rendering the late goal (3-2) by Egyptian Omar Marmoush for the Germans futile.
This result solidified Lyon’s position in the top eight, ensuring direct access to the knockout stage which Eintracht Frankfurt still aspires to despite their defeat at Groupama Stadium.
