Holders Real Madrid fell to their first Champions League defeat since May 2023 as Lille upset them at the Pierre-Mauroy Stadium.
It was also a first loss for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in 36 matches in all competitions – dating back to 18 January against Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey.
Jonathan David scored the only goal from the penalty spot for Lille after a video assistant referee (VAR) review ruled that Real’s French midfielder Eduardo Camavinga had blocked Edon Zhegrova’s free-kick with his arm.
The hosts were superb throughout and more than merited their victory to get up and running in this season’s competition following a 2-0 loss to Sporting in their opening game.
Prior to scoring from the spot, Canada international David was denied by a superb double save from visiting keeper Andriy Lunin as Bruno Genesio’s team dominated proceedings.
However, they were forced to hang on at the end against a Real side that introduced Kylian Mbappe – returning from a thigh injury – just before the hour mark.
A late rally from the visitors saw Antonio Rudiger’s header cleared off the line and Arda Guler head a gilt-edged opportunity straight at home goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier.
Real, who beat Stuttgart in their opening match, host Borussia Dortmund in a repeat of last term’s final in their next Champions League fixture, while Lille travel to Atletico Madrid.
