Lyon defeated Auxerre 3-2 in a thrilling Ligue 1 encounter, with Roman Yaremchuk's two goals proving decisive despite a late comeback attempt from the visitors.
Lyon welcomed struggling Auxerre to the Parc Olympique Lyonnais on April 25, 2026, looking to strengthen their fourth-place position. The hosts sat on 54 points from 30 matches, while Auxerre occupied 16th place with just 25 points. Lyon's recent form showed promise with a record of WWDLD, whereas Auxerre had managed only DDDWL in their last five outings.
The match exploded into life in the 19th minute when Yaremchuk fired Lyon ahead. The Ukrainian striker found space and converted with clinical finishing, giving the home side an early advantage. Auxerre responded positively, and in the 35th minute, Sinaly Diomandé leveled the contest with a well-taken goal that drew the visitors level at 1-1.
Both teams created chances throughout the opening half. Lyon dominated possession at 55 percent and generated an expected goals tally of 2.18. Auxerre, meanwhile, managed just 0.81 xG but remained competitive in attack. The midfield battle intensified as both sides sought control, with fouls accumulating on both benches.
At the interval, the match remained delicately poised. Lyon held the slight edge in territory and chances created, but Auxerre's defensive organization kept them in the contest. The second half promised to be a tactical affair, with both managers likely to adjust their approach.
Lyon took the lead again in the 66th minute through Corentin Tolisso, who fired past the Auxerre goalkeeper. The midfielder's arrival from the bench provided fresh impetus, and his goal appeared to have settled the contest. However, Yaremchuk struck again just five minutes later in the 71st minute, securing his second goal and seemingly putting the result beyond doubt at 3-1.
Auxerre refused to surrender, though. Bryan Okoh pulled one back in the 88th minute with a composed finish, setting up a tense finale. The visitors pressed forward seeking an equalizer, but Lyon held firm to secure the three points.
Yaremchuk's performance stood out with a rating of 8.9 and two crucial goals from three shots. Tolisso impressed after coming on, adding a goal and an assist despite limited minutes. Kévin Danois anchored Auxerre's defense with seven tackles, while Diomandé contributed a goal and an assist in a losing effort.
Lyon's shot count reached 12 total, with six finding the target. Auxerre managed nine shots but only two on target, reflecting their lack of clear-cut opportunities. The hosts completed 435 passes with 84 percent accuracy, controlling the tempo throughout.
This victory strengthens Lyon's grip on fourth place and European qualification. Auxerre remains mired in the relegation fight, now 16 points adrift of safety with limited time to reverse their fortunes.
