Lille Stun Nice with Second-Half Comeback to Move into Third Place in Ligue 1

Lille came from behind to defeat Nice 2-1 in a thrilling Ligue 1 match, with goals from Hákon Haraldsson and Bafodé Diakité helping the hosts leapfrog their opponents into third place.

Lille's quest for a UEFA Champions League spot in Ligue 1 gained momentum as they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nice, leapfrogging their opponents into third place in the process. This triumph marked the third time this season that Lille has come from behind to win a top-flight match.

The match got off to an intense start, with Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier making a crucial save in the early stages. Chevalier dove to his left to deny Gaëtan Laborde's powerful strike, and Pablo Rosario followed up with an effort that sailed over the bar. Sofiane Diop then tested Chevalier with a low drive from inside the area, but the goalkeeper expertly palmed the ball away.

However, Diop would eventually find the back of the net, handing Nice the lead in the process. After a low cross was pushed straight into his path, Diop calmly tucked the ball into an empty net from inside the six-yard box, giving his side a crucial advantage. Despite this setback, Lille would go on to stage a comeback, ultimately emerging victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.

Although Nice's early goal was deserved, it seemed to galvanize Bruno Génésio's side, who had been unbeaten in 20 outings since September. The team's response was immediate, with Alexsandro heading a promising effort wide. Just before halftime, Thomas Meunier unleashed a powerful strike from the edge of the area, forcing Marcin Bułka to make a spectacular diving save to deny the equalizer.

The equalizing goal ultimately arrived shortly after the break, courtesy of Hákon Haraldsson's third goal in six games. Haraldsson beat the goalkeeper at his near post after being expertly set up by Jonathan David. The momentum had shifted decisively in favor of Génésio's side, and they completed the comeback just after the hour mark. A corner into the box caused chaos, and the ball eventually fell to Bafodé Diakité, who scored from just two yards out with a simple yet effective finish.

The visitors, who had looked rejuvenated after the interval, were left reeling by the two quick goals. Franck Haise attempted to rally his team with a series of substitutions, but Nice's final ball lacked precision, which was uncharacteristic of a team that had scored at least twice in six of their last seven league outings. Despite their efforts, Nice were unable to regain their footing and ultimately succumbed to defeat.

𝑪'𝑬𝑺𝑻 𝑭𝑰𝑵𝑰 ✅

Le LOSC s'impose face à l'OGC Nice et monte sur le podium de @Ligue1 🥉

Rendez-vous à Liverpool mardi en Champions League 🏆

Le compte-rendu ➡️ https://t.co/DUcdsCX8TZ#LOSCOGCN 2-1 I 90' pic.twitter.com/OuxjlQCZdT

— LOSC (@losclive) January 17, 2025

Despite their struggles, Nice managed to create a promising scoring opportunity for Melvin Bard, who found himself with ample space on the left-hand side of the area. However, with only the goalkeeper to beat, Bard was unable to capitalize, instead directing his shot into the side netting. This missed chance proved costly, as Nice's five-game unbeaten streak came to an abrupt end.

The win marked a significant milestone for Lille, as they secured their first victory over Nice in six head-to-head meetings. The hosts nearly added insult to injury in injury time, but Jonathan David's shot was saved, ensuring the final score remained 2-1 in Lille's favor. The win was a testament to Lille's resilience and determination, as they bounced back from an early deficit to claim a crucial three points.