Lille's Giroud scores opening goal in Ligue 1 victory

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, August 23, 2026

Olivier Giroud scored early as Lille defeated Angers 2-0 in their Ligue 1 season opener under new coach Davide Ancelotti. The win demonstrates Lille's ambition to improve on last season's third-place finish and Champions League qualification.

Olivier Giroud opened the scoring as Lille secured a 2-0 victory over Angers in their Ligue 1 season opener on Sunday. The 39-year-old striker, who will turn 40 next month, found the net in the 11th minute with a precise low shot from distance after receiving a pass from Nabil Bentaleb.

Tiago Santos extended Lille’s lead just after the half-hour mark, volleying in a rebound following a well-constructed team move. The win marked a positive start for Lille’s new head coach, Davide Ancelotti, who assumed the role in June. Ancelotti, the son of renowned coach Carlo Ancelotti, succeeded Bruno Genesio, who left Lille to take the managerial position at Marseille.

Lille finished third in Ligue 1 last season, earning qualification for the Champions League group stage. This early victory under Ancelotti’s leadership signals the team’s intent to build on last season’s strong performance.

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