For weeks now, RC Lens has been struggling to reassure. Despite a fantastic comeback against Toulouse three weeks ago (3-2), the Lensois failed to escape traps set by Brest (3-3) and Nice (1-1) in the last two Ligue 1 matches. Falling further behind PSG in the title race, the team needed a flawless performance this Friday in the opening match of the 33rd Ligue 1 match against Nantes, missing Thauvin, Sangaré, Thomasson, and Saint-Maximin before the game. However, after a resounding victory against Marseille, FC Nantes traveled to Bollaert with the desire to win and continue hoping for an unlikely survival, just a few weeks ago.
Despite several absences, Lens made the best start to the match. Sharp and incisive, Pierre Sage’s men took the lead with Wesley Saïd scoring against Anthony Lopes (9th minute). After a difficult first 15 minutes, FC Nantes fought back. Playing for their top-flight survival, the Canaries played aggressively and created a few chances (21st, 28th). In a generally balanced first half, Lens provided the most excitement with Udol’s attempt highlighting their lack of efficiency (40th minute).
In the second half, Lens regained control. More dangerous than their opponents, the home team created more threatening opportunities and dominated the Nantes’ penalty area for a while. After a superb save by Risser (57th) and a clearance by Baidoo (60th), Lens thought they had scored. Nevertheless, Saïd was offside (69th) and Abdallah Sima’s goal was disallowed due to a handball (73rd). Two twists of fate led to a remarkable moment at Bollaert. The game changed with the first appearance of Mezian Mesloub, son of former Lorient midfielder Walid Mesloub.
On his first touch, the 16-year-old talent only needed two touches to open the scoring, just 18 seconds after coming on (1-0, 79th minute). A devastating outcome for Nantes who had hit the post through Abline a few minutes earlier, which could have set up Ganago on that play (77th). Despite a late attempt at an equalizer, the score remained unchanged as Lens emerged victorious. With a spot in the Champions League next season almost secured, Lens still has a chance at the title and will face PSG on Wednesday, who currently have a three-point lead. The joy of RC Lens contrasts with the despair of FC Nantes. Despite improvements in recent weeks, the Canaries will be relegated to Ligue 2 after this defeat.
Published on – Updated on
/2026/05/08/69fe36ccb19de045635946.jpg "Ligue 1: FC Nantes assured of relegation to Ligue 2 after defeat against Lens")
