Lyon secured their place in the Champions League play-off round after a dramatic win against Nice at Stade de Gerland on Sunday.

The match was a tense affair, with both teams creating chances but failing to break down the other's defense. In the end, it was Lyon who emerged victorious thanks to a stunning goal from substitute Olivier Giroud.

In the 85th minute, Giroud headed home a corner from the left flank and the ball looped over the head of the Nice goalkeeper and into the back of the net. It was a stunning strike that sent the crowd into raptures and gave Lyon a much-needed lead going into the final minutes of the game.

With just four minutes remaining, Lyon were awarded a penalty kick for handball in the box by Nice defender Florent Sinama-Pongolle. And it was Olivier Giroud who stepped up to take the spot-kick, and he did not disappoint. The French striker calmly converted the penalty, sending the ball past the helpless Nice keeper and securing his side's passage to the next stage of the competition.

For Nice, it was a disappointing exit from the Champions League, as they fell short of reaching the knockout stages. But there is still hope for them to make amends in Europe next season, as they will be returning to the group stage under new manager Lucien Favre.

Overall, it was a thrilling match that saw two of France's biggest clubs battle it out for supremacy. Lyon may have come out on top, but it was a testament to their resilience and determination that they were able to overcome such a tough challenge.