Lens is on cloud nine. As the ninth matchday is still underway, the team is currently positioned second in Ligue 1 following their 2-1 victory against Olympique de Marseille. Despite Marseille controlling the ball and scoring first through Greenwood, Lens faced early difficulties. However, just fifty seconds after Marseille’s goal, Odsonne Édouard was brought down in the box by Benjamin Pavard.
The former Paris Saint-Germain player, who joined this summer, skillfully converted the penalty with a panenka, bringing Lens level. In a frantic and sometimes naive first half, Lens struggled with ball retention, failing to capitalize on Marseille’s technical errors. Coach Pierre Sage highlighted this issue at halftime, saying, “We had some tactical problems, and we addressed them. I emphasized that we were giving the ball away too quickly. We also needed to manage details better, as we almost conceded a second goal just before halftime, and we were fortunate that the referee blew the whistle,” he explained after the match.
A Prestigious Win for Sage and Lens
Upon returning to the field, Lens took control of the game. More incisive and dynamic, fueled by an impressive Thauvin and a lively Bollaert crowd, they capitalized on a corner from Thomasson with an unfortunate deflection from Pavard, taking the lead. Showing better handling of the game’s momentum, Lens also defended solidly, exemplified by Samson Baidoo, who earned a commendable 7.5 out of 10 rating. Sage remarked, “We demonstrated much more composure and emotional control in the second half,” although he remained cautious about over-celebrating.
“This victory is a reward for the players, the club, the supporters, and the staff, but we still have a long way to go. As appetite grows with eating, we’re looking forward to the next match (against Metz on Wednesday).” With this sixth win in nine matches, Lens extends their impressive unbeaten streak to five. As runners-up to PSG, the club is reaffirming its position and dreams of a season that is both bright and promising.
Add Footem.in As your Preferred Source on Google
Follow the latest on Footem WhatsApp Channel