Lille qualify for UEFA Europa League, Reims drop into relegation play-offs

Lille have qualified for Europe following 2-1 win over Reims at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, as Rémy Cabella said goodbye to the club with a stunning flick on his final appearance for Les Dogues. Despite Sergio Akiemé's leveller, Chuba Akpom would fire the Northern side to victory in the final minutes from the penalty spot.

Before the game Reims hadn't yet managed to seal safety, with a draw enough to see Ligue 1 McDonald's football return to Stade Auguste Delaune next season. For Lille, results had to go their way if they were to qualify for the Champions League.

In what was potentially his final home appearance for LOSC, Rémy Cabella delivered a fitting moment of class. Found just inside the box on the left, the veteran midfielder audaciously flicked the ball past Yehvann Diouf with an instinctive backheel that left the Reims goalkeeper stranded – a stunning opener that gave Lille the lead their early dominance deserved (37').

Hakon Haraldsson had earlier forced Diouf into a fine low save, while Jonathan David, also making what could be his farewell appearance, went close with a couple of half-chances. Yet despite Lille’s pressure, Reims remained a threat on the break and went into the interval just a goal behind.

Reims respond – but Lille strike late

The visitors came out fighting in the second half and were rewarded on the hour mark when Akieme hammered home a bouncing ball on the edge of the area after a poorly cleared corner . His second goal of the season gave Reims a lifeline – and momentarily dropped Lille out of the top five, with Strasbourg leading elsewhere.

Bruno Génésio reacted swiftly, sending on Akpom and Osame Sahraoui, and the tempo increased as the hosts chased a winner. Their persistence paid off six minutes from time when Akpom was bundled over in the box by Joseph Okumu. The former Middlesbrough striker stepped up and calmly sent Diouf the wrong way to spark jubilant scenes in Lille.

Reims's players had to wait after the final whistle to find out the final result between Le Havre and Strasbourg. The Normand side managed to come from behind and complete an unbelievable comeback with a panenka penalty scored by captain Abdoulaye Touré in the final minutes of 10 added in injury time. Reims will have to face the play-offs on the 21st and 29th later this month...

THE STAT: A record extended for Les Dogues

The victory ensured Lille ended the season with 60 points, piping Strasbourg on goal difference. It also means the club will compete in the Europa League group stage next season, maintaining their presence in Europe under Bruno Génésio.

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