Bacha’s Influence Seals Lyon Win

Olympique Lyonnais 4-0 BK Häcken 

Words and Pictures by Jean-Pierre Thiesset direct from the Groupama Training Centre (18/12/21).

Above: Catarina Macario in action for Lyon during the game against BK Häcken. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.

As expected in a game between the top UEFA-ranked side, Olympique Lyonnais, and 27^th placed BK Häcken, this game was won by Lyon. The French side earned 59% of possession, 555 passes with an 82% success rate, 24 shots with 12 on target, and seven corners. For BK Häcken, 41% of possession, 409 passes with 72% successful, four shots with one on target, and no corners.

However, it was not an easy game for Lyon in the first half against a physical team that tried to play their game which perturbed the home players who had to wait until the 35^th minute to score. Catarina Macario hit the crossbar after receiving the ball from Selma Bacha’s cross but was able to put the rebound into the net.

The Swedish visitors continued to push up to the end of the first half but without really being able to threaten the Lyon goal.

The second half started with Lyon’s players more aggressive and more accurate on their passes and the game quickly turned to their advantage with a goal from Ada Hegerberg after 52 minutes again following a cross from Selma Bacha.

With 76 minutes on the clock, Amandine Henry scored solo goal after intercepting the ball 20 meters from goal, the consequence of a high press.

Janice Cayman made it 4-0 when she hit a half volley on a pivot on a cross from Melvine Malard to score a wonderful goal just three minutes later.

Without a great performance from BK Häcken goalkeeper, Jennifer Falk, especially in the second half, Lyon would have scored a lot more. Falk made several excellent saves.

Selma Bacha, who was voted the best D1 Arkema player of the month in September and November, delivered another great game as a left-sided striker. She made two decisive passes in this UEFA Women Champions League game. Bacha continues to put in outstanding performances whatever she plays as a left defender or left striker.