Despite the opener from Angel Gomes (53rd), Lille conceded a draw on Thursday at Slovan Bratislava. The Mastiffs retain the lead in Group A of the Europa Conference League.
In a match that had all the makings of a trap match, Lille scared themselves in the first half. Despite the incessant excesses of Thiago Santos on his right side, the Mastiffs failed to be dangerous, not targeting a shot during the first 45 minutes. Worse still, it was Slovan Bratislava which obtained the largest ammunition. A powerful header from Kashia following a corner from the right, which ultimately crashed onto the crossbar. Nothing more to think about, so the referee was able to send the 22 players back to the locker room. And give the brave spectators a well-deserved rest.
We were hoping for a second act with more spectacle, and we were served. From the 53rd minute, it was Angel Gomes, little seen in the first half, who took advantage of a relay with Yazici to deceive the opposing goalkeeper with a subtle dive. An opening score which had the merit of wrapping up the game. Two minutes later, Cabella distinguished himself by hitting a free kick from the left of the area, but Borjan relaxed perfectly to avoid the break (55th).
Yazici thought of doubling the lead shortly after (60th), but his nice lob was refused for offside. A first VAR intervention quickly followed by a second, after a penalty awarded to the locals for a foul by Umtiti. A decision canceled after (too) long minutes for an offside before the foul. Chevalier then made a classy save against Cavric (75′) but only delayed the deadline. On a cross from Zmhrhal, Cavric beat Umtiti to equalize, scoring his fourth goal in the competition. Lille pushed at the end of the match, but came up against an inspired Borjan. Paulo Fonseca’s men leave Bratislava with a draw, and remain leaders of their group ahead of their evening opponent.