Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu scores as Riems hold Lyon

Harambee Stars defender Joseph Okumu made a significant impact on Saturday as his team, Stade de Reims, secured a 1-1 draw against Lyon at Parc Olympique Lyonnais.

Okumu, playing in his 20th league match since joining Ligue 1 in 2023, marked the occasion with his first goal in the competition.

Joseph Okumu and co. solid

The match was characterized by an intense encounter and an animated second half. Reims, solid defensively in the first half, went into halftime with the score tied at 0-0 against Lyon, who showed good combination play.

Upon resuming from the break, Reims displayed more offensive intent and managed to break the deadlock. However, Lyon responded by reducing the deficit ten minutes later, resulting in a draw between the two sides.

The first significant opportunity of the match fell to Lyon, with Henrique finding Lacazette at the far post. However, Lacazette was offside on this occasion, sparing Reims from conceding early in the 5th minute. Reims also had their chances, with Oumar Diakité denied by Lopes in the 16th minute.

As the match progressed, both teams created scoring opportunities. Reims threatened Lyon’s goal, but Lyon also posed a danger, particularly through Maitland-Niles’ attempts.

Reims’ defense, led by Emmanuel Agbadou, stood firm, while goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf made crucial saves to keep Lyon at bay.

Joseph Okumu scores

In the second half, Reims continued to defend well while gradually showing more attacking flair. They eventually found the breakthrough when Okumu capitalized on a corner kick, slotting the ball into the net in the 55th minute.

However, Lyon responded swiftly, with Nuamah equalizing for them in the 65th minute. Despite both teams pushing for a winner, neither could find the decisive goal.

Reims had late chances to snatch victory, but Lyon’s goalkeeper, Lopes, made crucial saves to deny them. The match ended in a draw, with both teams sharing the points.

Overall, it was an evenly contested match, with both teams showcasing their strengths and providing entertaining football for the spectators.