Nigerian striker, Chuba Akpom nicked an assist as Lille secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Angers at the Stade Raymond-Kopa on Saturday.
Angers started the brighter side, pressing high and putting Lille under pressure in the opening minutes.
However, the visitors began to find their rhythm from around the 10th minute, with Akpom growing increasingly involved.
The Super Eagles hopeful had a golden opportunity to open the scoring in the 23rd minute after connecting with a pass from Matias Fernandez-Pardo. Still, he dragged his effort wide of the post.
Despite limited clear-cut chances in the first half, Lille made their breakthrough just before the break. In stoppage time, Alexsandro capitalized on a loose ball in the box to put Lille 1-0 ahead.
Lille came out flying in the second half and wasted no time in doubling their lead.
Just five minutes after the restart, Akpom showed great awareness inside the box, threading a clever pass to Hakon Haraldsson, who calmly slotted past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Akpom was lively throughout his time on the pitch, linking up well with his teammates and offering a constant threat before he was substituted in the 72nd minute.
The victory lifts Lille temporarily to second place in Ligue 1, pending the outcome of the Marseille vs Brest clash. If Marseille manages a win or a draw, they will reclaim second spot.
Regardless, Lille knows they must keep the momentum going if they hope to secure a top-three finish and a return to Europe’s biggest stage next season.
Akpom, on his part, will aim to maintain his good form in these crucial final weeks of the campaign.
