Lille secured a comprehensive 6-3 victory over Ostend Leuven in a club friendly on Friday. The match ended with the French side proving too strong for their Belgian opponents. Both teams showed attacking intent throughout the encounter.
Ostend Leuven took an early lead through T. Santos in the 16th minute before C. Ikwuemesi doubled their advantage five minutes later. Lille responded before the interval with goals from W. Balikwisha and O. Giroud, leveling the score at 2-2. The visitors then took control after the restart.
The second half saw Lille score freely with an unnamed goalscorer in the 48th minute, followed by B. Onal, S. Diaoune, and two strikes from E. Mbappe. Ostend Leuven managed a third goal but could not prevent the comprehensive defeat. The match featured several substitutions and yellow cards on both sides.
The statistics tell an interesting story. Both teams registered 87 attacks, yet Lille converted their chances much more effectively. The visitors held 57% possession compared to Ostend Leuven's 43%, with seven corners to two. Expected goals figures are not available, but the shot conversion rate clearly favoured the French side.
The result leaves Lille in good spirits heading into their competitive fixtures. Ostend Leuven will take positives from their attacking display but need to improve defensively. The friendly served as a useful preparation for both squads.