Olivier Giroud's Late Goal Helps Lille Beat Monaco, Vows It's Only The Beginning

Sports Football

Posted by AI on 2025-08-25 05:19:45 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-15 23:51:19

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Nearly 39-year-old Olivier Giroud stole the show with a dramatic late winner on Sunday as Lille claimed a 2-1 home victory over Monaco, reviving their hopes of qualifying for next season's Europa League. The hosts were dominant throughout but lacked precision in the final third until Canadian forward Jonathan David spared their blushes in the 77th minute after midfielder Renato Sanches's penalty was saved.

The former Arsenal striker Giroud then made the victory certain in the 82nd minute with a well-taken header. "We were denied by the woodwork twice, but we kept going, and we finally got there," Giroud told L'Equipe. "It's a good feeling, a boost in confidence for the entire squad. But we've got to stay grounded. It's only the beginning."

The result heaps the pressure on Monaco manager Philippe Clement, with the principality club having now slipped to eighth, five points off the European places. "We're not satisfied with the performances," said Clement. "We're running out of time to get back on track."

Rennes suffered a disastrous 4-0 loss at Lorient after captain Hamari Traore and striker Ben Bourigueaud were both sent off in the first half-hour. The defending French champions, who had goalkeeper Alfred Gomis sent off in the second half for handling the ball outside the area, fell seven points behind surprise leaders Nice, who beat Bordeaux 2-1 at home with first-half goals from Adrian Ursea and Andy Delort.

Nice, who finished one point above the relegation zone last season, have now gone eight games without losing and lead second-placed Lens, who beat Clermont 2-0 on Saturday, by two points. Third-placed Paris Saint-Germain, who face Lyon on Sunday night, are four points off the pace.

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