Lille secured a convincing victory against Ajaccio during the 9th day of Ligue 1, with three African players contributing to the success: Pape Souaré and Idrissa Gueye from Senegal, and Salomon Kalou from Ivory Coast.
The first goal came in the 17th minute when Pape Souaré, recently extended until 2017, scored a powerful header from a well-taken corner by Marvin Martin, giving LOSC a 1-0 lead. Despite continued pressure from Lille, the score remained unchanged until halftime.
After the break, Lille intensified their efforts. In the 57th minute, following a celebration by Salomon Kalou in the Ajaccio area, his cross was deflected by the defense, but Idrissa Gueye recovered the ball and scored with a powerful strike, making it 2-0 for LOSC.
The third goal came in the 70th minute, orchestrated by Salomon Kalou. After a 20-meter strike from Ronny Rodelin, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa parried the shot, and Kalou scored the third goal with a diving header, sealing a 3-0 victory for Lille.
In the standings, Lille occupies the 3rd place, tied on points with Marseille. Ajaccio is provisionally 17th, pending the outcome of the Sochaux match against Bordeaux. Looking ahead, LOSC will face Montpellier, while Ajaccio will host Nantes in the 10th day of Ligue 1 in two weeks.
