Super Eagles hopeful Chuba Akpom delivered a dramatic finale in the last Ligue 1 matchday of the season, scoring the decisive goal against Reims to help Lille seal a hard-fought 2-1 home win on Saturday evening at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.

The 29-year-old striker made an instant impact after coming off the bench in the 73rd minute, replacing Jonathan David, Footballrover reports.

With the score locked at 1-1, Chuba Akpom showed nerves of steel as he won and converted a late penalty to hand Lille the victory.

It was his only shot in the game—and it proved to be the difference.

Goal against Reims highlights Akpom’s clutch impact

Despite featuring for just 17 minutes, Chuba Akpom left his mark by scoring his third Ligue 1 goal of the season, adding to his one assist in 14 league appearances since arriving on loan from Ajax.

His composure under pressure and smart movement earned Lille a vital three points, even though it wasn’t enough to push them into the Ligue 1 top four.

The match held significant implications for both sides. Lille were chasing a UEFA Champions League spot, while Reims were fighting to avoid relegation.

After a cagey start, Les Dogues finally found the net when Rémy Cabella scored a brilliant back-heeled volley just before halftime.

But Reims responded through Sergio Akieme, who fired in a thunderous volley off the underside of the crossbar to level the match.

Lille pushed for a winner, and it eventually came when Joseph Okumu fouled Chuba Akpom in the box. The Nigerian calmly sent Diouf the wrong way to make it 2-1.

Chuba Akpom’s goal not enough to secure Lille’s future

Despite the brilliance, Akpom will not be staying at Lille beyond this season. The club released its summer departure list shortly after the match, confirming Akpom’s exit along with those of Jonathan David, Angel Gomes, Remy Cabella, Mitchell Bakker, and Samuel Umtiti.

There had been speculation that Akpom, known for his stints with Arsenal and Ajax, could become Jonathan David’s replacement.

His recent increase in minutes added fuel to the rumours. However, Lille made their decision clear, cutting short any further speculation.

For Chuba Akpom, this goal against Reims is obviously his last contribution in a Lille shirt, but it certainly left a good impression.

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Last Updated on May 18, 2025 9:09 am by Sir Kris