Lyon coach Sonia Bompastor has said her team is “the best team in the world” in terms of success and that will remain true if Barcelona beat them in the women’s Champions League final on Saturday.
Eight-time winners Lyon have seen their European dominance threatened by defending champions Barcelona in recent years, with the Catalans reaching four finals in five years.
Lyon have never lost to two-time champions Barcelona in four games, including the 2019 and 2022 finals.
“By titles, we are the best team in the world and we will continue to be, no matter what happens tomorrow,” Bompastor said at a press conference on Friday ahead of the clash at San Mames in Bilbao.
“Tomorrow’s game is very important, we want to win, I’m very determined. I trust my players.”
The coach said that striker Ada Hegerberg is fit to play in the final, as she continues her recovery from injury.
“Ada has been training normally in the last few weeks, she is getting stronger and stronger, everyone in this room knows her qualities,” said Bompastor.
“Her experience is invaluable and with a strong mind everything will be possible for Ada tomorrow.”
Bompastor confirmed that defender Griedge Mbock Bathy is available after injury, but striker Eugenie Le Sommer is out.
Lyon defender and captain Wendie Renard has played down rivalry rumors against Barcelona after some Catalan players said they were seeking “revenge” ahead of the game.
“For me there is no rivalry or animosity,” said the 33-year-old defender.
“When we start the campaign we have common objectives, which are to win as many games as possible… we are calm, calm and determined.
“We know why we came here and what we want as a collective, we are making a lot of sacrifices as a team and individually.”
Renard, the first player to play 100 games in the competition, has played in each of Lyon’s 10 final matches to date.
The veteran said that although Barcelona have improved, Lyon have also improved.
“Barcelona have evolved a lot in recent years, they are world-class players,” continued Renard.
“They can dominate the opponent, but we know our strengths, we know our qualities and (also) we have evolved together over many seasons.”
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