Stade Pierre-Mauroy, May 17, 2025 On a night full of intense emotions, Lille secured their spot in the UEFA Europa League with a 2-1 win over Reims in a match that featured spectacular goals, controversial moments, and nail-biting tension until the final whistle. Goals from Rémy Cabella and Chuba Akpom (penalty) sealed 5th place for Les Dogues, while Reims must now face Metz in a relegation playoff.
The match was a true reflection of both teams’ seasons: Lille showing efficiency in key moments, and Reims fighting hard but ultimately paying the price for defensive lapses. With Lille dominating the first half and Reims mounting a brave comeback in the second, the game had all the hallmarks of a high-stakes showdown.
First Half: Lille Dominate, Cabella Shines in Farewell Match
From the opening whistle, Lille took full control, monopolizing possession and creating the clearest chances. Reims, meanwhile, sat in a deep block, hoping to strike on the counter.
⚽ 37’ – Rémy Cabella (1-0) – Farewell Wondergoal
- Thomas Meunier advances down the right and delivers a cross. The ball falls to Cabella at the edge of the box. With his back to goal, the French midfielder pulls off a stunning “scorpion kick” volley that leaves Yehvann Diouf helpless. Cabella’s first goal of the season comes in his final match for Lille. The stadium erupts!
Other First-Half Highlights
- 16’ – Cabella Almost Scores Again: After Haraldsson is blocked by Okumu, Cabella tries an acrobatic shot that goes just wide.
- 34’ – Diouf Saves: Haraldsson curls a shot on target, but Diouf makes a great stop.
- 45’ – Reims Struggle in Attack: Siebatcheu isolated and flagged offside.
Halftime: Lille 1-0 Reims, Dominance from the hosts, but Reims still in it.
Second Half: Reims Respond, but Akpom Seals It Late
Reims came out stronger after the break, pressing for an equalizer, while Lille looked content to defend their lead. The game exploded into life in the final minutes.
⚽ 60’ – Sergio Akieme (1-1) – Screamer from the Left-Back
- Poor clearance from Gbane on a corner, Akieme pounces on the loose ball at the edge of the box and blasts a thunderous left-footed strike past Chevalier, Reims are back in the game, and Lille are on alert.
⚽ 86’ – Chuba Akpom (2-1) – Ice-Cool Penalty
- Akpom is brought down by Okumu in the box after a through ball.
- VAR: Quick confirmation of the penalty. Akpom calmly slots the ball into the left corner, sending Diouf the wrong way, the goal that secures the win and Europa League qualification for Lille.
- 64’ – Lille in Danger: The draw temporarily drops Lille to 6th as Strasbourg are winning.
- 71’ – Diouf Saves Again: Meunier nearly scores, but Diouf tips it wide.
- 90+3’ – Reims’ Last Chance: Patrick heads wide in the dying seconds.
Final Whistle: Lille 2-1 Reims, A hard-fought victory and mission accomplished for Les Dogues.
Impact on the Standings: Europe for Lille, Playoff for Reims
Lille (5th, 60 pts)
- Qualified for the UEFA Europa League.
- Best finish since the 2021/22 season.
Reims (16th, 33 pts)
- Will face Metz in a relegation playoff.
- Disappointing league campaign despite a French Cup final appearance.
Tactical Analysis: Why Lille Won
Lille (4-2-3-1): Control and Efficiency
✅ Strengths:
- Meunier and Gudmundsson dominated the flanks.
- Cabella and Haraldsson created constant imbalances.
- Quick transitions exploited space effectively.
❌ Weaknesses: - Lack of killer instinct up front (David ineffective).
- Vulnerable to set pieces.
Reims (5-4-1): Lack of Creativity
✅ Strengths:
- Akieme’s wondergoal.
- Okumu solid defensively.
❌ Weaknesses: - Midfield absent.
- Siebatcheu left isolated in attack.
Man of the Match: Rémy Cabella (Lille)
⭐ 1 goal, 3 dribbles, 85% passing accuracy
⭐ Stunning backheel goal
⭐ Brilliant send-off after 3 years at the club
Match Facts and Trivia
- Lille haven’t lost to Reims since 2023.
- Cabella scored his first goal of the season in his farewell match.
- Reims haven’t won at Pierre-Mauroy since 2017.
What’s Next?
Lille:
- Preparing for Europa League campaign.
- Jonathan David’s departure likely.
Reims:
- Relegation playoff vs. Metz (May 22 & 25).
- Coupe de France Final vs. PSG (May 24).
Farewell to Cabella, Relegation Drama for Reims
Lille finished the season with a deserved win, while Reims face a final battle for survival. With Cabella bidding a spectacular farewell and Akpom emerging as the hero, Les Dogues can look forward to European nights. As for Les Rémois, everything now rides on the playoff to avoid relegation.
News cover image by: francebleu.fr
