Our Hoffenheim vs Lyon prediction expects a Lyon win in a game with plenty of goals. The match kicks off at 19:00 UTC (21:00 CEST) on Thursday 22 October 2026 at the SNP Arena in Sinsheim, on Matchday 3 of the Europa League. Moreover, Hoffenheim have no points from two games, while Lyon have a perfect six. As a result, the visitors are clear favourites.

Hoffenheim vs Lyon Prediction: Match Preview

Hoffenheim have lost both of their Europa League games. They lost 2-0 at OFI Crete and then 3-2 at home to Beşiktaş last Thursday, so they have conceded five goals in two games. On Sunday they won 2-1 at Mönchengladbach, which will help their confidence, but in their last eight games they have won only two and conceded 19 goals.

Lyon, on the other hand, have started well. They won 2-1 at Anderlecht and then beat Crystal Palace 3-2 at home last Thursday. On Sunday they beat Nice 2-1 in Ligue 1, and in their last eight games they have won five, drawn two and lost one. Still, they have conceded in six of those eight games, so Hoffenheim can score.

Head-to-Head Record

The clubs have met three times before, and all three games ended in draws. The page we checked does not list the individual scores. Therefore, history suggests a close game, but current form clearly favours Lyon.

Hoffenheim vs Lyon form guide with Europa League points, goals and head-to-head

Key Battle: Hoffenheim's Back Line vs Lyon's Attack

Hoffenheim have conceded at least three goals in five of their last eight games, and that is a huge problem against an attack in good form. Lyon scored four against Rennes and three against Palace, and they create chances from wide areas. Hoffenheim, meanwhile, always score, so Lyon will not be able to relax. If the home side stay compact early, they can keep the game close.

What to Expect at the SNP Arena

Expect Hoffenheim to attack with energy, because they badly need points. Lyon will try to control the middle and use their pace on the counter. However, the home defence has been very open, so we expect Lyon to find gaps. For that reason, a Lyon win with three or more goals in total looks the most likely result.

Team News

According to reports, Hoffenheim are without Alexander Prass and Fisnik Asllani, who are both expected to be out for one to two weeks. Lyon are without Julien Duranville. Therefore, check the confirmed line-ups one hour before kick-off.

Kick-off Times and How to Watch

The match kicks off at 19:00 UTC (21:00 CEST) on Thursday 22 October 2026 at the SNP Arena in Sinsheim. That is 15:00 ET in Canada, 20:00 BST in the UK, 20:00 WAT in Nigeria, 21:00 SAST in South Africa, 22:00 EAT in Kenya, 00:30 (early next day) IST in India and 21:00 CEST in Norway and Sweden. Broadcast rights differ by country, so check your local broadcaster before the game.

Betting Tips

For us, Lyon to win with over 2.5 goals is the strongest play. Hoffenheim's games have produced more than 2.5 goals in seven of their last eight, and Lyon have won five of their last eight. In addition, Hoffenheim have scored in seven of their last eight, so both teams to score is a good value option. On the other hand, the three previous draws make a big handicap risky.

  • Main tip: Lyon to win and over 2.5 goals
  • Value tip: Both teams to score
  • Bonus tip: Lyon double chance (win or draw)
  • Predicted score: Hoffenheim 1-2 Lyon

Pick

Pick: Lyon to win and over 2.5 goals

Final Verdict

Overall, Lyon are in better form and Hoffenheim's defence is a big problem, although the hosts will score. Therefore, our Hoffenheim vs Lyon prediction is an away win with goals at both ends. For more analysis, read our Juventus vs Rennes prediction and our Bournemouth vs Milan prediction, and check the latest standings on the official Europa League website.

FAQ

Who will win Hoffenheim vs Lyon?

We expect Lyon to win, with 2-1 as our predicted score.

What time does Hoffenheim vs Lyon kick off?

The game kicks off at 19:00 UTC (21:00 CEST) on Thursday 22 October 2026 at the SNP Arena in Sinsheim.

What is the head-to-head record between Hoffenheim and Lyon?

They have met three times, and all three games ended in draws.

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