Lille Complete Stunning Comeback in Belgrade to Reach Europa League Last 16
French side Lille OSC produced a night of resilience and nerve in Serbia, overturning a first-leg deficit to defeat Red Star Belgrade 2-0 after extra time and secure a dramatic passage into the UEFA Europa League round of 16.
After suffering a 1-0 defeat at home in France, Lille traveled to the intimidating Rajko Mitić Stadium—famously known as the Marakana—needing at least two goals to keep their European dream alive. Against a hostile crowd and under immense pressure, they delivered when it mattered most.
Giroud Makes History with Early Breakthrough
Veteran striker Olivier Giroud wasted no time announcing Lille’s intentions. Just five minutes into the contest, the 39-year-old rose highest at the near post to powerfully head home a pinpoint cross from captain Benjamin André. The early strike not only erased Lille’s aggregate deficit but also injected belief into a side that had been struggling with form.
Giroud’s goal was historic. The former World Cup winner became the first French outfield player to start a European knockout match at the age of 39, underlining his enduring influence at the highest level.
Under the guidance of head coach Bruno Génésio, Lille approached the encounter with urgency and tactical discipline. Despite being without several injured players, the French side dominated possession in the opening half. Their approach was structured, with much of the attacking focus directed down the right flank, where Tiago Santos consistently pushed forward.
However, clear scoring opportunities were limited. Forward Fernandez-Pardo came close twice before halftime, but goalkeeper Matheus was equal to the task, denying Lille from extending their lead.
Defensive Nerves and Serbian Pressure
Although Lille controlled much of the first half, defensive lapses nearly cost them dearly. Goalkeeper Özer had two anxious moments within a three-minute spell, briefly gifting Red Star hope. Fortunately for the visitors, the Serbian side failed to capitalize.
At halftime, the tie remained delicately balanced.
Red Star head coach Dejan Stanković responded decisively after the break, introducing experienced striker Marko Arnautović in a bid to turn the tide. The change had an immediate effect.
The Serbian champions came out with renewed intensity, pressing high and launching repeated attacks—particularly down their left flank. For long stretches in the second half, Lille were pinned back, defending desperately as the Marakana crowd roared in support.
Despite losing control of midfield and struggling to create chances, Lille showed remarkable defensive resilience. Red Star’s finishing let them down in crucial moments, with several promising moves breaking down inside the final third.
As the clock ticked down and neither side found another goal in normal time, the tie moved into extra time—still hanging in the balance.
Ngoy Emerges as the Unexpected Hero
With fatigue setting in and tension rising, it was an unlikely hero who delivered the decisive moment.
Young substitute Ngoy, introduced in the 95th minute, needed just four minutes to make his mark. In the 99th minute, he found space inside the Serbian penalty area and calmly slotted the ball home, sending the Lille bench into wild celebrations.
The goal proved to be the turning point of the night.
Red Star pushed desperately for a response, throwing numbers forward in search of a lifeline. Lille nearly added a third when a brilliant move involving Correia and Giroud forced a spectacular save from Matheus in the 112th minute.
Giroud later appealed for a penalty following a robust challenge inside the box, but the referee waved play on. The closing minutes were frantic, with the Serbian side committing fully to attack, but Lille’s defense stood firm.
When the final whistle sounded, the scoreboard read 2-0 in Lille’s favor—completing an aggregate turnaround and sealing their place in the last 16.
What’s Next for Lille?
With qualification secured, Lille now await their next opponent. The draw will determine whether they face English Premier League side Aston Villa or French rivals Olympique Lyonnais in the next round.
Regardless of the opponent, this comeback victory will serve as a major confidence boost for Génésio’s men. Winning in Belgrade is no small feat, and doing so under knockout pressure highlights both the experience of players like Giroud and the emerging promise of talents such as Ngoy.
For Lille, the Europa League campaign remains alive—and after a night like this, anything seems possible.