Calvin Verdonk becomes first Indonesian passport holder to start in Champions League
The Indonesia left-back started for Lille against Galatasaray, but the French club lost 4-2 for their third defeat in three matches.
Calvin Verdonk became the first Indonesian passport holder to make a Champions League starting line-up when Lille hosted Galatasaray at Pierre-Mauroy Stadium on 21 October, according to CNN Indonesia. Lille lost the match 4-2.
Coach Davide Ancelotti selected the Indonesia international at left-back, with regular starter Romain Perraud among the substitutes. Verdonk had already become the first Indonesian player named in a Champions League matchday squad in the opening round, before becoming the first to play in the competition in the second round.
Galatasaray took the lead through Yunus Akgun in the second minute. Soriba Diaoune equalised in the 21st minute and scored again in the 39th to put Lille 2-1 ahead. Alexey Batrakov brought the visitors level in the 44th minute, leaving the teams tied 2-2 at half-time.
An own goal by Lille goalkeeper Berke Ozer in the 52nd minute restored Galatasaray’s advantage. Victor Osimhen then scored in the 61st minute to complete the scoring.
The result left Lille with three defeats from three matches in the 2026/2027 Champions League and in 35th place in the standings. Galatasaray recorded their first victory and stood 23rd.
