The website MadeInFoot has revealed the predicted starting line-up for Le Havre AC ahead of their trip to Lyon this Saturday for matchday two of Ligue 1. Manager Didier Digard is expected to set his team up in a 4-4-2 formation with Josh Maja leading the attack.
According to the outlet, goalkeeper Anthony Mpasi will be shielded by a back four of Kevin Jelert, Christopher Touba, Seko Fofana, and Timothée Pembélé. The midfield will feature captain Racine Coly Ndiaye alongside Darlin Ebonog, Andy Mwanga, and Jaden Richardson. Up front, Shunsuke Nakamura and Josh Maja are tipped to form the striking partnership.
Which new faces could start the game?
Several summer signings could make their season debuts from the kick-off. Centre-back Seko Fofana, who joined from Al-Nassr FC, is predicted to partner Christopher Touba in defence. On the wing, youngster Jaden Richardson, on loan from Celtic, is in contention for his first league start. These potential inclusions highlight Digard's intent to refresh and energise his squad after a season focused on survival.
Le Havre AC drew 1-1 with RC Lens on the opening weekend, an encouraging result at home. Data from our stats page shows the team registered 12 shots in that match, demonstrating some attacking intent. The upcoming away test against an OL side reeling from Champions League elimination is a different challenge entirely.
What is Didier Digard's expected tactical plan?
The predicted 4-4-2 by MadeInFoot suggests a solid and balanced approach. This shape would allow Le Havre to counter Lyon's wide play while maintaining two strikers to threaten on the break. The role of Racine Coly Ndiaye in midfield will be key to winning possession and launching quick transitions towards Nakamura and Maja. The Norman coach is banking on collective solidity and efficiency in limited spells of possession.
The team will have to cope without midfielder André Ayew, who is suspended following his red card against Lens. This absence is offset by the versatility of Andy Mwanga, who can operate in several midfield roles. The official team sheet and latest absence updates are always available on our injuries page.
What is the challenge for Le Havre AC in Lyon?
Facing Olympique Lyonnais at the Groupama Stadium is always a tall order, especially for a team that struggled away from home last season. Lyon, managed by Paulo Fonseca, will be looking to bounce back from their midweek European exit and will be particularly dangerous. Le Havre will need to be defensively flawless and take any chances they create.
The fixture list for the coming weeks, which you can check on our fixtures page, pits Le Havre against several direct rivals in the battle to avoid relegation. A point, or even a convincing performance in Lyon, could build positive momentum before these decisive encounters. The clear objective remains to accumulate points as early as possible to avoid a stressful end to the campaign.
The final line-up will be confirmed one hour before the 8:45 PM kick-off. Digard's selections will be closely watched, particularly to see if the new signings integrate as well on the pitch as they do on paper.
