Lens
Lens were denied a point in the Derby du Nord when Lille struck late on Friday. Robin Risser had kept Yannick Cahuzac’s side in contention with several saves, but the setback increased the pressure ahead of another European test. After beating Slavia Prague, Lens lost to Sporting CP and Club Brugge, conceding five goals across those two matches.
Cahuzac is still without Ismaëlo Ganiou and Odsonne Édouard following surgery. Jean-Clair Todibo, Samson Baidoo and Ruben Aguilar are possible starters in a back three, although Kyllian Antonio impressed after replacing Todibo against Lille. Saud Abdulhamid and Matthieu Udol provide width, with Amadou Haidara and Mickaël Cuisance offering support in midfield. Up front, Thorgan Hazard’s recent goal against Paris FC strengthens his case to play alongside Florian Thauvin behind Franjo Ivanović. Florian Sotoca and Junior Kadile remain alternatives if Cahuzac wants a different attacking balance.
Como
Como extended their winning run in Serie A by edging Venezia through a Lucas Da Cunha penalty. Their European form has also attracted attention: Cesc Fàbregas’s team put four past Manchester United, with Nico Paz scoring twice. That blend of controlled possession and incisive attacking combinations gives the Italian visitors a clear identity heading into this fixture.
Fàbregas must nevertheless manage several absences. Moise Kean faces a recovery period after treatment for a shin injury, while Trevoh Chalobah, Assane Diao and Jesús Rodríguez were not training with the main group on Tuesday. The coach therefore has strong reasons to retain Tasos Douvikas as his centre-forward, supported by Nico Paz, Martin Baturina and Da Cunha.
There are more genuine choices deeper in the team. Máximo Perrone could return alongside Luis Milla after starting the European win over United, while Samuele Ricci also has recent starts. At left-back, Álex Valle competes with Kaiki Bruno. Jean Butez is favoured in goal, although Robert Sánchez has featured recently.
