In a match that had everything but the kitchen sink, Lille OSC pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over AS Roma in the Europa League on Thursday night. The game, played at Rome's Olimpico Stadium, turned into a penalty drama in the dying minutes, with Lille's young goalkeeper Berke Ozer emerging as the unlikely hero. Roma, chasing an equalizer after Jonathan David's early strike put Lille ahead in the 22nd minute, were awarded three spot-kicks in quick succession during stoppage time. But Ozer, the 20-year-old Turkish sensation, denied them all, saving Roma's hopes and securing a precious away win.
Indeed, the build-up to that frenzy was tense but not exactly fireworks. Roma dominated possession with 62 percent, firing off 18 shots compared to Lille's more efficient seven. Yet, for all their pressure, the Italian side couldn't break through until those desperate penalties. Ozer's triple save wasn't just luck; it was a display of raw nerve, diving left, then right, and blocking the final one with his legs as the clock ticked past 95 minutes. Lille's defense, marshaled by the ever-reliable Bafodé Diakité, held firm, frustrating Roma's attack led by the usually prolific Paulo Dybala, who was subbed off looking frustrated.
However, this result raises questions for Roma under new manager Claudio Ranieri. Already struggling in Serie A with just two wins from seven games, this Europa slip could dent their confidence further. Lille, meanwhile, climb to third in their league phase group, boosting their campaign after a solid 2-1 win over Lyon last weekend. The French side's counter-attacking style, spearheaded by David's clinical finish, exposed Roma's vulnerabilities at the back.
Moreover, the match wasn't without controversy. Roma players argued vehemently with the referee over what they called a soft foul leading to Lille's goal, but VAR upheld it. Ozer's performance, though, stole the show—three penalties saved in one game? That's the stuff of legends, even if it leaves Roma fans wondering what might have been.
As the dust settles on this chaotic encounter, one can't help but ponder how such fine margins define a season in Europe's second-tier competition.