Lille Advances to Conference League Quarterfinals

In the first half, Lille withstood Sturm Graz’s attack as the Austrian side looked for the goal to spark a comeback, with ten shots in total. Despite their high number of shots, the French team opened the scoring with a goal from Tiago Santos in the 43rd minute. 

Sturm Graz managed to level the score in the first-half stoppage time with a goal from Mika Biereth. The offensive production tailed off for Christian Ilzer and his team as they only managed six total shots in the second half.

Lille didn’t score in the second half but their attack did register six total shots, aiming to add an insurance goal. Paulo Fonseca and his squad didn’t need to register another goal in the final 45 minutes as they now advanced to the Conference League quarterfinals. 

The Ligue 1 team now awaits Friday’s draw to see who their opponent will be, but they’re two rounds away from reaching an international final. 

Lille shifts their attention to the league, where they’re battling for a UEFA Champions League spot for next season. Les Dogues will have a massive showdown against Brest this weekend, which impacts the race as the point margin between fifth and second place is four points.