Eto’o Reflects on Europa League Draw as Everton Hold Lille
By BBC Sport | Europa League | Group Stage
Everton secured a valuable point on the road with a goalless draw against Lille in Thursday night’s Europa League group stage action. While the match lacked goals, it provided a solid result for the Toffees, who maintain their position at the top of the group standings.
Veteran striker Samuel Eto’o praised the outcome, viewing the draw as a step forward in the club’s European campaign.
“An away point is positive, even if we could have scored towards the end,” Eto’o told beIN SPORTS after the final whistle. “Lille gave us the opportunity to do so. A point is not bad — we will see how the competition continues.”
The Cameroonian, who has brought experience and composure to Roberto Martínez’s squad, acknowledged the team’s missed chances but emphasised the importance of securing something away from home in continental competition.
The draw means Everton remain unbeaten in the Europa League this season and in control of their group, with crucial fixtures still to come.
Eto’o also took a moment to reflect on Everton’s domestic form, which has been somewhat inconsistent since the start of the Premier League season.
“We played very well at the start of the season but we were very naive,” he said, referencing high-scoring matches such as the 2-2 draw with Arsenal and the 3-6 defeat to Chelsea. “What’s past is past — we have to look to the future.”
Martínez’s side will now turn their attention back to domestic duties as they aim to build consistency in the Premier League while continuing to advance in Europe. With Eto’o’s leadership and a growing sense of balance between defence and attack, Everton appear well-positioned to compete on both fronts.
