EUL: Lille hit Zagreb for four, Nice fall to Porto
French clubs experienced contrasting fortunes on Thursday night in the UEFA Europa League, as Lille reignited their campaign with a dominant 4–0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb, while Nice fell 3–0 against FC Porto, a result that leaves them bottom of the standings and still searching for their first point. At the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Bruno Genesio’s LOSC delivered the response they needed, playing with intensity, clarity, and fluid attacking structure after two consecutive defeats.
Lille controlled possession from the first whistle and opened the scoring when Hákon Haraldsson slipped through Félix Correia, who finished confidently to set the tone. The advantage doubled before half-time as Igamane produced a disguised pass for Mukau, who applied a calm finish. After the interval, Lille continued to dominate and were rewarded again when Igamane, excellent between lines all evening, added a third with a composed strike.
The final goal arrived through a moment both symbolic and promising for the future: Ethan Mbappé made his Europa League debut, forced a save, and Benjamin André followed in to complete a commanding 4–0 scoreline. Lille leave the night with momentum restored, confidence rebuilt, and their European position strengthened.
Les Aiglons' wings clipped by Porto
In Portugal, the story was far different. Nice’s night unraveled within seconds, as Veiga scored after just 20 seconds following a turnover and quick service from Pepê. From that moment, Porto controlled rhythm and territory, leaving Franck Haise’s side chasing shadows and struggling for attacking presence.
The hosts doubled their lead before half-time through a superb second from Veiga, driven into the top corner, and sealed the result in the second half when a VAR-confirmed penalty allowed Samu Aghehowa to make it 3–0. With no shots on target and difficulty building through pressure, Nice left the Estádio do Dragão frustrated and exposed, their European hopes fading as the group stage advances. Many of the 710 travelling supporters departed well before full-time — a visual summary of the challenge ahead. As the competition moves forward, Lille step with renewed belief, while Nice must react quickly to prevent their campaign from slipping away.
