The wider picture
The LFFP Cup, aimed at celebrating the growth of women’s football in Africa, witnessed its inaugural final where Lyon faced Paris Saint-Germain Féminine. This match marked a significant moment for women’s football on the continent, highlighting the increasing competitiveness and visibility of the sport.
On March 16, 2026, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Lyon secured a narrow 1-0 victory over PSG, clinching the first-ever LFFP Cup title. The decisive moment came in the 59th minute when Melchie Dumornay found the back of the net, ensuring Lyon’s triumph in this prestigious tournament.
Despite the success in the LFFP Cup, Lyon’s performance in Ligue 1 has been less than stellar. The team extended its winless run to six games following a 0-0 draw with Le Havre. This ongoing struggle has left Lyon in fourth place in the league, trailing Olympique de Marseille by two points.
The match against Le Havre was particularly challenging for Lyon, as their opponents were reduced to ten men during the game. Despite this advantage, Lyon was unable to capitalize fully, having a goal ruled out for offside and failing to secure a victory. Mory Diaw’s standout performance earned him the title of Man of the Match, but the result further emphasized Lyon’s difficulties in recent league matches.
In contrast, the victory in the LFFP Cup provides a much-needed morale boost for Lyon, showcasing their potential to compete at high levels. The win against PSG not only adds a trophy to their cabinet but also serves as a reminder of their capabilities in women’s football.
Initial reactions from players and coaches have been positive, with many expressing pride in their performance in the cup final. However, the ongoing challenges in Ligue 1 remain a concern, and observers are keen to see how Lyon will respond in their upcoming matches.
Looking ahead, Lyon will need to address their league form to maintain a competitive position. With the next fixtures approaching, officials and fans alike are hopeful that the momentum from the LFFP Cup victory will translate into improved performances in Ligue 1.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the team’s strategy moving forward, but the focus will undoubtedly be on regaining their winning form in the league while building on their recent success in the cup.