Hoffenheim shatters Europa League season opener with 3-0 win over Lyon

TSG Hoffenheim celebrated on Thursday its first Europa League victory experience of the season, when it defeated Olympique Lyon at home stadium 3‑0. Andrej Kramaric scored in stoppage time of the first half, Adam Daghim added shortly afterwards and the third goal came in the 83rd minute – according to a report by Oliver Zimmermann from Vienna of Adam Hlozek, another report names Fisnik Asllani.

First win after two defeats

After two defeats in the ongoing Europa League season, the Ilzer team Hoffenheim delivered the long‑awaited first three‑point win. The French opponent Olympique Lyon had to settle for a goalless game, with Felix Bacher in goal until halftime. The win marked the first success of the German side in the group.

Tactics, key players and ball possession

Christian Ilzer employed a high‑press, which put Lyon under pressure early. In central midfield Alexander Prass controlled the game, while the team consistently played the ball into the opponent's half. The attacking moves were supported by Bambasé Conté, but the decisive chances came from Kramaric, Daghim and the controversial third goal.

Coach, sporting director and reactions

Coach Christian Ilzer praised the cohesive performance of his side after the win. Sporting director Andreas Schicker dismissed rumours of a possible interest from Eintracht Frankfurt and emphasised: "I can say that there is nothing to it." He added: "I enjoy the work here enormously."

Other player events in the European context

On the same matchday the Austrian striker Raul Florucz scored a penalty for Union Saint‑Gilloise in the 4‑0 against Hapoel Be’er Sheva. Marko Arnautovic watched the 2‑2 draw of Red Star Belgrade against Copenhagen from the bench. Philipp Lienhart was absent for fitness reasons in the match of Freiburg against Monaco.

Outlook on the next encounters

On the fourth matchday of the Europa League Hoffenheim will travel on 5 November to face the English side Crystal Palace. Olympique Lyon will then travel to San Sebastian for the next group match. Both teams hope to fill the season with further points.