Lille made an ideal start on home soil, opening the scoring in the fifth minute through Jonathan David. The Canadian forward capitalized on a chance inside the box, steering a first-time effort between the legs of Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
With the early breakthrough, Lille moved ahead 2-1 on aggregate, having drawn the first leg 1-1 in Germany. The home crowd sensed a historic opportunity as the French side aimed to secure a first-ever Champions League quarterfinal berth. However, Dortmund gradually grew into the game and pressed forward in search of an equalizer.
Dortmund’s comeback seals victory
After knocking on the door multiple times, the German club found their breakthrough early in the second half. A penalty was awarded when Thomas Meunier made contact with Serhou Guirassy in the area, and captain Emre Can calmly dispatched the spot-kick in the 54th minute to restore parity.
Dortmund nearly took the lead moments later when Maximilian Beier’s header narrowly missed the target. The forward made amends in the 65th minute, rifling a powerful shot into the roof of the net after receiving a well-timed pass from Guirassy. With the visitors now ahead 3-2 on aggregate, Lille pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages.
David had a golden chance to restore Lille’s hopes, but his close-range shot was denied by Kobel. Hakon Haraldsson also tested the Dortmund keeper with a dipping effort, but Kobel remained solid, pushing the attempt over the bar to secure his team’s progression.
Guirassy’s influence guides Dortmund to Barcelona clash
Serhou Guirassy once again proved instrumental for Dortmund, contributing another assist to his impressive Champions League campaign. The Guinea international has now recorded 14 goal involvements in the tournament – matching Mohamed Salah’s record for the most by an African player in a single season.
While Guirassy did not get on the scoresheet, his presence troubled Lille’s backline throughout the match. His ability to win the penalty and set up the decisive goal underlined his importance to Dortmund’s attacking play.
The German side secured a Champions League comeback victory for the first time since their 2021 triumph over Sevilla. With a ninth quarter-final appearance now confirmed, Dortmund will prepare for a highly anticipated showdown against Spanish giants Barcelona next month.
