Lyon Finally Relinquish Title

Not in a Ligue of their own

This year’s Ligue Un title is one of the most exciting in recent memory. Why? Because two clubs are vying for the championship and surprisingly, neither of them is Olympique Lyonnais. For the first time in 8 seasons a team other than Lyon will be crowned champions of France. With two matches to play Bordeaux sit top of the pile 3 points clear of nearest rivals Olympique Marseille. Out-going champions Lyon find themselves uncharacteristically in third spot 7 points off the pace.

Cracks in Lyon’s armor began appearing throughout last season. On numerous occasions the team scrapped points against lower placed opposition and rumors of player unrest permeated the press. Bordeaux pushed Lyon all the way through the campaign and the title was only secured on the last day of the season thanks to a fantastic opening goal by superstar striker Karim Benzema.

Boasting the revelation of the season, on-loan AC Milan midfielder Yoann Gourcuff, and one of the most astute and articulate young managers on the continent, Laurent Blanc, Bordeaux play a quick, attacking style of football supported by a solid back-line and dependable keeper. If Bordeaux do win the title they will be worthy champions having been the most attacking team in the league averaging 1.72 goals per game.

Never ones to excel on the European stage, next season Lyon face an unfamiliar assault on the UEFA Cup with Bordeaux and Marseille destined to take on the cream of the continent.