In-form Brazilian Abner Vinicius scored what proved to be the winner as Lyon moved into the Ligue 1 top four with a 2-1 victory over 10-man Brest on Sunday.
Lyon took advantage of Lille's loss at Paris Saint-Germain on Friday to jump above the northerners in the table.
Paulo Fonseca's men are two points behind third-placed Marseille, but 10 adrift of surprise leaders Lens, who are one point clear of champions PSG.
Brest forward Romain Del Castillo was sent off in the 19th minute for a nasty foul on Nicolas Tagliafico.
Lyon had to wait until four minutes before halftime to take advantage, when Pavel Sulc produced a brilliant finish from a tight angle after rounding visiting goalkeeper Gregoire Coudert.
Abner doubled the lead in first-half added time with a thunderous strike from just outside the area after being teed up by compatriot Endrick, making his league debut after joining on loan from Real Madrid.
Brest pulled one back late on through Junior Dina Ebimbe, but Lyon held on.
Earlier, Paris FC eased their relegation worries as substitute Luca Koleosho's winner secured a crucial 2-1 victory at fellow strugglers Nantes.
The capital club climbed to 13th place, five points clear of Nantes who occupy the relegation play-off spot.
Gary O'Neil enjoyed a 2-1 win over Metz in his first league game as Strasbourg coach, while sixth-placed Rennes were held to a 1-1 draw by Le Havre.