The Historic Rivalry: Lyon vs. Saint-Étienne Derby
The highly anticipated derby between Lyon and Saint-Étienne returns to Ligue 1, reigniting one of the most intense rivalries in French football. With AS Saint-Étienne back in the top tier after a two-year absence, fans are eager to witness the 125th edition of this storied matchup. This Sunday, November 10, at 8:45 p.m., the match will take place at Groupama Stadium, with coverage available on DAZN and DAZN1.
Historically, Lyon has dominated this rivalry, especially in home matches. Since 2000, they have won 13 out of 21 encounters against the Greens, with Saint-Étienne managing only two victories and six draws. The last time Saint-Étienne triumphed on Lyon soil was March 30, 2014, marking a long drought for the Verts in this fierce contest.
Notable Matches in the Lyon - Saint-Étienne Derby
Several matches stand out in the history of this rivalry. One of the most memorable was Lyon's 4-0 victory on April 30, 2006, during which the home team celebrated their fifth consecutive championship title. This match is remembered not just for the scoreline but also for the playful antics of the Lyon players, who painted their faces and dyed their hair in team colors, adding to the derby's lore.
Conversely, the 0-1 defeat on September 25, 2010, remains a painful memory for Lyon fans. It marked the first loss to Saint-Étienne at Gerland since 1993, leading to significant unrest among supporters and calls for the coach's resignation. The tension in that match was palpable, with eight yellow cards issued, showcasing the fierce competition.
Another highlight was the 3-2 victory on February 26, 2005, which featured a thrilling back-and-forth battle, ultimately sealing a narrow win for Lyon. The last derby at Gerland on November 8, 2015, ended in a 3-0 victory for Lyon, a fitting farewell to their old stadium before moving to the new Groupama Stadium.
As both teams prepare for this latest clash, Lyon sits comfortably in 7th place, while Saint-Étienne struggles at 16th, though only five points separate them. With Lyon on a five-game unbeaten streak in Ligue 1, the stakes are high for the Greens, who have not defeated their rivals in five years. The outcome of this derby could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the season.
