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Injured at Lens, Openda ruled out for Lyon-Crystal Palace Europa League clash

Loïs Openda suffered a right calf injury during Lyon's 2-1 defeat at Lens on Friday and has been ruled out for Thursday's Europa League home match against Crystal Palace. The extent of the injury will be determined after medical imaging tests on Monday.

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Injured at Lens, Openda ruled out for Lyon-Crystal Palace Europa League clash
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Loïs Openda will not be on the pitch at Groupama Stadium on Thursday evening to welcome Crystal Palace in the Europa League. The Belgian striker, injured in the right calf during Lyon’s 2-1 defeat at Lens on Friday, left Bollaert on crutches and has already been ruled out for this European fixture.

The injury occurred during a challenge with Lens defender Ismaëlo Ganiou. Lyon, which is playing matches at a relentless pace, will have to manage without its leading striker for this continental showdown, with kick-off at 18:45.

The exact extent of the damage remains to be determined. According to L’Équipe, Openda will undergo medical imaging tests on Monday, once the hematoma has partially subsided, to rule out muscle damage or a bone fracture. These results will make it possible to precisely determine the length of his unavailability. His presence is also uncertain for the reception of OGC Nice at Groupama Stadium next Sunday in Ligue 1.

The absence of the Belgian international opens the door for young Rémi Himbert. Revealed last season, the striker was reintegrated into Paulo Fonseca’s squad for the Europa League campaign and should benefit from increased playing time against the Eagles.

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