Lens qualify for Champions League group stages

After a sensational campaign that’s seen them beat all of their high-ranking rivals, Lens have sealed their place in next season’s Champions League group stages, securing second place after a resounding 3-0 win over Ajaccio for tonight’s penultimate matchday.

Manager Franck Haise will have taken the Sang et Or from Ligue 2 to the European elite in the space of three years, with an all-action approach that’s seen them take the top flight by storm with the most entertaining play in the league. Their near-impeccable home record at the imposing Stade Bollaert – 17 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss – will have been the bedrock of a season that’s seen the Artois outfit deservedly return to the Champions League, after a 20-year absence.

The result was wrapped up quickly – goals from Deiver Machado and winter signing Adrien Thomasson ended any hopes of a statement result for the Corsicans before they go down to Ligue 2. The third would come from Loïs Openda from the penalty spot, with the Belgian striker scoring his twentieth of the campaign. His airplane celebration paid tribute to Lens great Roger Boli, whose club-record haul of goals over a single season he had just drawn level with.

GFFN | Raphaël Jucobin