Pierre Sage’s dream start at Lens continues. He arrived this summer with the goal of revitalizing a squad that had a tough 2024-2025 season under Will Still, finishing in a disappointing 8th place. Several new players joined during the summer transfer window, and while it took time for Sage’s playing style to take shape, it has been improving week by week.
Against a confused Monaco team struggling with their finishing, Lens capitalized on every opportunity. Odsonne Édouard took advantage of a mistake from Thilo Kehrer to score the opener in the 21st minute, then assisted Wesley Saïd for the second goal. The former Celtic player has now scored five times this season, highlighting his importance alongside Saïd, who netted twice. An expulsion for Folarin Balogun before halftime allowed Lens to control the game more easily, with Mamadou Sangaré scoring the third goal on a swift counter-attack just before the break (45+3).
A Team in Constant Progress
In midfield, Sangaré and Adrien Thomasson delivered an outstanding performance. The duo recovered twelve balls and suffocated Monaco’s trio of Coulibaly, Golovin, and Akliouche. Up front, Florian Thauvin dazzled with his vision and passing ability, playing a key role in Saïd’s second goal (60). To cap off a perfect evening, Robin Risser, another new signing for Lens, saved a penalty from Ansu Fati in injury time (90+4), securing a comfortable win.
Lens not only impresses with its attacking efficiency but also shines defensively. The central trio of Bambo, Sarr, and Gradit performed solidly, dominating in duels. On the flanks, Udol and Aguilar consistently provided overlapping options in attack while ensuring a disciplined defensive response.
After the match, Florian Thauvin celebrated the victory while emphasizing caution, speaking to Ligue 1+. “What matters is competing against the top teams in the league, and we’re managing to do that this year, which is why we’re at the top of the standings. I believe we’re more than just a team; we’re a family, fighting for each other. Co-leaders of Ligue 1? It’s wonderful, especially at this stage of the season, but we must not get carried away. We know that our good results come from teamwork. Our supporters are incredible; they traveled so far to support us, and that means a lot to us.” Sage praised his players’ control, stating, “In terms of transitions, it’s probably our best match of the season. In the second half, we managed possession well, though there’s still room for improvement. My favorite half? The first, without a doubt. When the score is 0-0, the spaces are different, and that’s when you have to exploit them. We took advantage of the moments when they were open to attack deeply. The players were focused on every recovery, and it was very effective.” Now second to OM, Lens has no choice but to make their presence felt. The question remains: how far can the Sang et Or go?
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