Sparta Prague secures Champions League spot with 2-1 win over Lyon

Sparta Prague overturned a 0-1 first‑leg deficit to defeat Olympique Lyon 2-1 in the second leg of the Champions League third‑qualifying round, advancing to the group stage. French media criticised Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca and the team's defensive play, while Sparta’s comeback was driven by a first‑half equaliser and a second‑half winner. Lyon goalkeeper Dominik Greif made a notable save, but could not prevent the loss.

Separately, Czech striker Jan Kuchta left Sparta after a brief and unsettled spell. Having joined from Slavia Prague for a reported €2.5 million, Kuchta struggled for playing time and was loaned to Danish side Midtjylland, where he scored only once in nine league appearances. His departure follows a series of moves that have seen him play in several countries, including a short stint in Russia before returning to the Czech league.