Chuba Akpom Scores on Ligue 1 Debut for Lille in 2-1 Loss to Le Havre
Nigeria eligible striker Chuba Akpom made a memorable debut for Lille in Ligue 1, scoring a late goal in their 2-1 defeat to Le Havre.
Akpom’s goal came in the 97th minute, reducing the deficit to 2-1, and he followed in the footsteps of fellow Super Eagles forwards Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Terem Moffi, who all scored on their Ligue 1 debuts for Lille, Nantes, and FC Lorient, respectively.
Despite the loss, Akpom’s performance was one of the few positives for Lille, who missed a chance to move into the Champions League places.
Akpom, who joined Lille on loan from Ajax Amsterdam with an option to buy, came on as a second-half substitute and made an immediate impact. His goal was a consolation for Lille, who struggled to take advantage of their possession and several scoring chances.
Le Havre, however, were more clinical, with goals from Soumaré and Issa Soumaré putting them 2-0 up.
Although Lille dominated the game, they were left frustrated by missed opportunities, while Akpom’s debut goal offered hope for the future.
The 29-year-old striker will look to build on this performance in Lille’s next match against Rennes on February 16.
Akpom’s move to Lille is seen as a fresh start after a difficult time at Ajax, and his goal against Le Havre shows he is ready to make the most of his chance in France.
