Real Madrid, the reigning Champions League holders, suffered their first defeat in the competition since May 2023, falling 1-0 to a spirited Lille side at the Pierre-Mauroy Stadium. Jonathan David‘s penalty, awarded after a VAR review, was enough to secure the shock victory, ending Carlo Ancelotti’s 36-game unbeaten run in all competitions. It was a deserved win for the French club, who bounced back after losing their opening group match to Sporting CP.
Real Madrid’s Unbeaten Streak Ends
Real Madrid had not tasted defeat since January 2024, when they lost to Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey, and their form in Europe had been exemplary since their Champions League triumph earlier in the year. However, their momentum came to an abrupt halt against Lille, who outplayed the 15-time European champions for much of the night.
The only goal of the match came after a controversial moment in the second half. A free-kick from Lille’s Edon Zhegrova was blocked by the arm of Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga inside the penalty area. The referee initially waved away appeals, but a VAR check revealed the infringement, and Jonathan David stepped up to convert the resulting penalty. It was a decisive moment that swung the match in Lille’s favor.
David, the Canadian international, had been a thorn in Real’s defense all night and was only denied earlier by a stunning double save from Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. His penalty, however, made no mistake, and the home crowd erupted in celebration.
Lille Dominate From the Start
From the opening whistle, Lille looked like the more aggressive and determined side. Manager Bruno Genesio’s tactical setup stifled Real Madrid’s fluid attacking play, forcing their midfield into mistakes and closing down spaces. Despite missing several key players through injury, including their star forward Jonathan Bamba, Lille’s energy and work ethic overwhelmed the usually dominant Madrid midfield.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, appeared sluggish and struggled to find their rhythm. Jude Bellingham, who has been a standout performer since his move to Madrid, found it difficult to assert his usual influence.
Brazilian teenager Endrick, who made history as the youngest ever starter for Real Madrid in the Champions League at just 18 years and 73 days, also had a quiet game. Despite his undeniable potential, the youngster found himself isolated for large portions of the match and failed to make the desired impact.
Mbappe’s Return Not Enough
Carlo Ancelotti made a bold move in the 59th minute, introducing Kylian Mbappe, who was making his return from a thigh injury. The French superstar’s presence injected some urgency into Madrid’s attack, but Lille’s defense, marshaled by Tiago Djaló and José Fonte, stood firm. Mbappe’s lightning pace threatened to open up spaces in the final third, but Lille maintained their composure, closing down Real Madrid’s attempts to mount a comeback.
In the dying minutes of the game, Real Madrid came agonizingly close to an equalizer. Antonio Rudiger, always a threat in set-piece situations, saw his powerful header cleared off the line by the Lille defense, and just moments later, Arda Güler wasted a golden opportunity by heading straight at Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier. The French keeper was outstanding throughout the match, commanding his area and pulling off vital saves to preserve his team’s lead.
Ancelotti Reflects on a Rare Defeat
Speaking after the match, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that his team had been second best for much of the game. “Lille deserved their win. They were more aggressive and sharper than us, especially in the first half. We improved in the final 30 minutes, but it wasn’t enough,” Ancelotti said. The defeat marked the end of a long unbeaten streak for Madrid, but Ancelotti remained positive, pointing out that the team would have a chance to bounce back in their next Champions League fixture against Borussia Dortmund.
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