Lens secured a 2-1 victory over Paris FC in a captivating Ligue 1 encounter on Sunday, thanks to a powerful header from Samson Baidoo. The win propelled the northern side to fourth place in the league standings, intensifying their pursuit of a coveted Champions League spot.
The match, played at Stade Bollaert-Delelis, saw Lens continue their strong home form, marking their fifth win in seven home matches. The victory also extended their unbeaten run to four matches. Baidoo expressed his satisfaction after the game, stating, "We showed great effort as a team, we attacked and defended together".
The first half was filled with action and drama. Lens had an early opportunity to take the lead when Florian Thauvin was awarded a penalty in the 9th minute, but his effort was thwarted by a fine save from Paris FC goalkeeper Obed Nkambadio. However, Lens quickly recovered, with Odsonne Edouard heading in the opening goal in the 17th minute, assisted by Adrien Thomasson.
Paris FC responded strongly, and Pierre Lees-Melou leveled the score just before the half-hour mark with a deflected shot following Ilan Kebbal's cutback. The game remained evenly contested until halftime, with both sides displaying attacking intent.
Lens regained the lead in the 64th minute when center-back Samson Baidoo rose highest to meet an excellent cross from Adrien Thomasson, scoring with a decisive header. Thomasson proved to be instrumental in the victory, providing both assists for Lens' goals. Despite a late penalty shout, Paris FC was unable to find another equalizer, and Lens held on for the win.
With this victory, Lens now sits level on points with third-placed Strasbourg and is only two points behind league leaders Marseille. Marseille, who thrashed Le Havre 6-2 on Saturday, are scheduled to visit Lens next weekend for a highly anticipated match. Meanwhile, Paris FC finds themselves in 11th place in the league standings.
In other Ligue 1 action, Marseille leapfrogged Paris Saint-Germain at the top of the standings. Lille won 2-0 at Nantes and remain just four points behind Marseille in the fight for European places. Rennes was held to a 2-2 draw by Auxerre.
