Lyon test to define Lille's season

Ambitious LOSC Lille Métropole, chasing a return to the UEFA Champions League, are preparing to play the "most important match" of their season when they entertain the title-winners Olympique Lyonnais on Saturday.

'Huge challenge'
With two games left the northern side hope to remain in third place and seal a spot in the third qualifying round of club football's premier tournament. Nearest rivals Olympique de Marseille, who are at home to relegated RC Strasbourg, are level on 58 points with Lille and trail them on goal difference. "This is certainly the most important match of the season," said Lille's Brazilian defender Rafael Schmitz. "It's a huge challenge for us. We want to play in the Champions League again - it's one of the goals we set before the start of the season."

'Great game'
Lille lost 4-2 at neighbours RC Lens last weekend and "can't afford a home defeat" before they conclude their campaign against a Stade Rennais FC side chasing a spot in the UEFA Cup. Rafael continued: "It's going to be a great game because Lyon will come here to take revenge after we beat them at their place." The protégés of Claude Puel handed the French champions their first defeat on home soil for more than a year in December. Another 3-1 victory would do just nicely on Saturday.