Ancelotti eases Lille’s injury worries after Giroud’s early exit in Everton draw

Lille’s 1‑1 draw with Everton saw veteran striker Olivier Giroud limp off in the 23rd minute, but coach Davide Ancelotti’s reassuring comments eased the “Nous avons peur” concern, signalling the forward should be fit for the Ligue 1 upcoming restart.

Injury and Immediate Reaction

Giroud twisted his left knee in a duel with Iliman Ndiaye and had to be replaced five minutes later, prompting immediate alarm among the LOSC staff. The club’s medical team confirmed a strong pain but no serious damage, allowing the striker to leave the field at the 23rd minute.

“Il a eu une douleur forte. Nous avons eu peur, mais les nouvelles sont rassurantes,” said coach Davide Ancelotti on the club’s website after the match. Mais Davide Ancelotti remained upbeat, emphasizing that the situation was under control.

Match Flow and Future Outlook

Giroud, who extended his contract by one year in June, finished last season with 11 goals in 44 matches across all competitions and helped LOSC qualify for the Champions League. The 40‑year‑old, a former World Cup winner, was the starter at the tip of the attack for Lille.

Lille breathe relief as Giroud cleared for season opener

Everton dominated the first period, earning a penalty that Iliman Ndiaye converted in the 41st minute after Nathan Ngoy fouled Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall. Lille’s early attempts, including a near‑miss from Nabil Bentaleb and a shot by Basar Onal that struck Jordan Pickford, fell short.

In the second half Lille improved possession but struggled to finish, eventually finding the net when Hakon Haraldsson volleyed a cross from substitute Noah Edjouma in the 93rd minute. The match ended 1‑1, with the friendly serving as Lille’s final preparation before the Ligue 1 restart.

Ancelotti added that Giroud could be available within a week for the upcoming league clash against Angers, scheduled in eight days. He noted, “Je pense qu'il peut être disponible dans la semaine pour Angers. Mais il faudra bien regarder ce qu'il a.”

With the injury seemingly minor, Lille can look forward to a full‑strength attack as they head back into Ligue competition, and Ancelotti’s calm assessment should ease any lingering doubts among fans and teammates alike.