Lyon is only ranked 9th in the Ligue 1 standings, and it is still far from a European seat. Unsurprisingly, Les Gones coach Laurent Blanc intends to strike at the French Cup before challenging Lille in the round of 16 on Wednesday in his dream of European qualification at the end of the season.
“The cup is important for all clubs. We know, it’s the shortest route to Europe. It’s true. (…) This week can give us a lot (Lille in the cup, then Lens in Ligue 1, Editor’s note). Our fate will depend on the players and no one else,” the Rhone coach explained at a press conference on Monday.