Lille secured their place in the 2025/26 Europa League playoffs after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Freiburg in the final matchday of the league phase at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium on Friday, Western Indonesian Time.
Olivier Giroud's injury-time penalty proved decisive for Les Dogues.
Indonesian national team left-back Calvin Verdonk started in a 4-4-2 formation and played a key role in Lille's solid play. Verdonk started the match before being substituted in the 82nd minute.
This victory ensured Lille qualified for the Europa League playoff round after climbing to finish 18th with 12 points.
Despite losing, Freiburg are guaranteed to qualify directly for the round of 16 after securing seventh place with 17 points, as reported on the official UEFA website.
Freiburg, already in a position to secure a direct qualification to the round of 16, played under pressure and didn't overexert themselves. Lille, on the other hand, played more aggressively from the start, aiming to secure their place in the knockout stages.
Lille's first chance came in the 26th minute through Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, but the Icelandic midfielder's shot went wide of the target.
Freiburg managed to reply in the 38th minute through Johan Manzambi, but his effort was blocked by the home defense.
Entering the second half, Freiburg began to increase their attacking intensity. However, Les Dogues' back line remained disciplined.
