Nigerian forward and former Beyond Limit player, Shina Ayodele found the net as Lille’s Under-19 team secured a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid’s youth squad on Wednesday.
The match is the second round of the Youth League group stage, and Real Madrid left Lille empty-handed after failing to capitalize on their chances.
The home side struck first with a goal from Diaoune in the 40th minute, followed closely by Shina Ayodele ’s goal just three minutes later, putting Lille ahead 2-0 at halftime.
Both teams had opportunities early on, with Lille’s Yáñez seeing his shot blocked in the fourth minute and Ayodele being denied in a one-on-one situation shortly after.
The match was marred by controversial officiating from Belarusian referee Kourgheli, who issued only a yellow card to Imbondo for an elbow on Aimar, forcing him off the pitch in the 19th minute.
Additionally, Kourgheli failed to award a penalty for a handball by Diaoune late in the game.
After the break, Lille nearly extended their lead when Lachaab struck the post in the 46th minute. However, Real Madrid responded with renewed energy, and Yáñez pulled one back in the 57th minute with a precise shot from the edge of the area, making it 2-1.
Buoyed by the goal, Madrid pushed hard for an equalizer. They came close on several occasions, with Roi hitting the post and Perea being denied by a crucial save from Lille’s goalkeeper Merzouk.
Ultimately, Lille held on for the win after settling for a 2-2 draw against Sporting CP in their UEFA Youth League Opener, where Ayodele also scored.
