Ligue 1 2019/20: Montpellier vs Lyon – tactical analysis

Montpellier have been earning some not-so-impressive results early in the season. Michel Der Zakarians side lost their opening Ligue 1 game against Rennes before drawing in the next one against Bordeaux. Montpellier didnt play so badly but still looked a bit unconvincing in their first two games.

The Southern France-based club had to face a strong Lyon side who were full of confidence and vigour, fresh after a thumping 6-0 win against Angers and prior to that, a convincing 3-0 victory against Monaco. Sylvinhos side have been very aggressive in attack and impressively solid in defence. The two clean sheets, as well as nine goals out of two games, are clear evidence that Lyon are a side to be feared this season.

However, as it turned out, Montpellier were well-prepared and dealt with their opponents accordingly. Lyon were neutralised by the persistent and excellently-organised Montpellier in this game.

Well take a deeper look at how both teams fared against each other in this tactical analysis.

Lineups

Montpellier (3-4-1-2)

Der Zakarians preferred shape never really strays far from 3-4-1-2 or 5-3-2. After deploying his team in a 5-3-2 shape in their last two games, the Franco-Armenian manager decided to play with a 3-4-1-2 system in this game.

Only two changes were made in terms of personnel for this game. Advanced playmaker Florent Mollet returned from injury to start in this game ahead of Mihailo Ristic. Meanwhile, highly-talented centre-back Nicolas Cozza made his first start for Montpellier this season ahead of a more experienced Daniel Congré.

Starting XI: