Lyon held 0-0 at Angers as winless streak reaches 9 matches

PARIS — Lyon's hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League were further dented on Sunday after a 0-0 draw at Angers in Ligue 1, extending its winless run in all competitions to nine matches.

Looking for a first win since mid-February, Paulo Fonseca's players were devoid of ideas in a match that offered few chances for both teams.

Lyon has a tough schedule ahead with matches against leader Paris Saint-Germain and second-placed Lens in its remaining six Ligue 1 games. The seven-time champions are currently fifth, two points behind third-placed Lille.

In-form Monaco hosted fourth-placed Marseille later Sunday.

The top three in France qualify directly for the Champions League while the fourth-placed team goes through qualifying.

“We had to win today. The race for the Champions League is more difficult now, but we are not giving up,” Fonseca said.

On Friday, defending champion PSG increased its lead over Lens to four points by beating Toulouse 3-1.

Lens endured an off night on Saturday and was well beaten by northern rival Lille 3-0.

Lorient was unable to celebrate its 100th anniversary with a win after being held 1-1 at home by Paris FC. Bamba Dieng put the hosts in the lead with his eighth Ligue 1 goal this season. Marshall Munetsi equalized in the 74th.

Le Havre and Auxerre drew 1-1.

Last-placed Metz and last-but-one Nantes drew 0-0.

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