Lyon appeal derby defeat amid safety and refereeing concerns

Olympique Lyonnais have appealed to the French league’s competitions organisation committee (COC) to delay recording the result of their 2-1 defeat to rivals Saint-Étienne, citing safety concerns and refereeing decisions during Sunday’s heated derby clash.

Sources close to the club said Lyon are not expecting a replay but hope the appeal will “raise awareness” within the committee and the refereeing body. The club remains in contention for a Champions League spot with four Ligue 1 matches remaining.

The Ligue 1 encounter at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard was marred by controversy, including a 45-minute delay after a coin was thrown at an assistant referee. Lyon claim additional objects were thrown at their players during the pre-match warm-up.

An investigation by the LFP’s disciplinary committee is already underway, with a ruling expected in early May.

Lyon technical director Matthieu Louis-Jean expressed frustration post-match, noting the atmosphere and incidents compromised player safety. In their formal appeal, Lyon alleged that during an on-site crisis meeting, the club had warned officials “that the safety of their players was not guaranteed.”

The appeal also highlighted the controversial VAR decision that overturned a red card for Saint-Étienne forward Lucas Stassin, whose tackle forced Lyon midfielder Corentin Tolisso off on a stretcher. Stassin, initially sent off, remained on the field and later scored the winning goal.

France’s refereeing body later admitted the red card “should not have been overruled.”

Lyon further claimed banned “Death to Lyon” banners were visible during the match, despite pre-match warnings from league and local officials.

(Source: AFP)