Defending champions Real Madrid faces shocking loss from Lille; 36-wins run shattered

In a stunning Champions League group-stage upset, Lille defeated defending champions Real Madrid 1-0 at home on Wednesday, October 2. This victory ended Madrid's incredible 36-match unbeaten streak across all competitions. Jonathan David netted the game’s only goal from the penalty spot just before halftime, handing the 15-time European Cup winners their first defeat since January. The result also snapped Madrid's 14-game unbeaten run in the Champions League.

The penalty was awarded in first-half stoppage time after Eduardo Camavinga handled Edon Zhegrova's free-kick inside the box. David calmly converted the spot kick, giving Lille a memorable lead. Reflecting on the crucial goal, David said, "I try to focus, to keep calm to take a good shot, but I'm confident when it comes to taking penalties. It has not sunk in yet, but it's a memorable night."

Despite a more aggressive second-half showing, Real Madrid struggled to break down Lille's resilient defense. Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin admitted after the match, "We lacked aggression, creativity—what we always have... In the second half, we showed more desire, but in the first half we were worse, that's obvious."

Real Madrid started without star forward Kylian Mbappé, who sat on the bench due to a muscle injury. Carlo Ancelotti’s side created early chances, with Vinicius Jr. forcing a low save in the sixth minute, and Lucas Chevalier denying close-range efforts from Endrick. However, Lille stayed strong and controlled the game.

Ancelotti introduced Mbappe and Luka Modric in the second half to bolster Madrid’s attack, but Lille held firm, securing a historic victory. With this win, Lille now has three points from two matches in the revamped Champions League, matching Real Madrid's tally after their opening win against VfB Stuttgart.