Five seasons of loyalty to Sparta Prague came to an end for captain Lukas Haraslin after the first leg victory over Lyon (2-1). The Czech midfielder, who entered the pitch in the 84th minute, has since signed with Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia’s Pro League. The club is set to receive a transfer fee close to €5 million, a substantial exit following Jan Kuchta’s move to Legia Warsaw earlier this summer.

Coach Brian Priske faces a reshaped squad after Saturday’s league loss (0-2) to Mlada Boleslav, which saw seven new signings make their debuts. With Haraslin absent, Josimar Alcocer—who impressed in the first leg—is expected to retain his starting spot. Sparta Prague will field a nearly identical lineup at Groupama Stadium, aiming to replicate their first-leg triumph.

Priske’s tactical confidence despite challenges

« We have a real opportunity to qualify if we repeat our first-leg performance, » Priske stated. « Lyon arrived to play their first competitive match of the season on our turf—never an easy task. Their extended break gives us a slight edge, but consistency will be key, especially in midfield. »

The Danish manager emphasized Sparta Prague’s attacking intent, dismissing any notion of playing defensively. « We won’t just wait for Lyon. We’ll press high and look to exploit spaces, » he added.

Key factors for Sparta Prague’s Champions League ambitions

• Midfield control: Sparta Prague must dominate the center of the park to limit Lyon’s creativity.
• Set-pieces: With a tall and physical squad, capitalizing on dead-ball situations could prove decisive.
• Home advantage: The Groupama Stadium’s intimidating atmosphere could tilt the balance in Sparta’s favor.