Three weeks in the making, the Lens-PSG match originally scheduled for the 29th round had taken on a special significance in France. Initially seen as a potential turning point in the title race, this clash between the two best French teams of the season had generated a lot of controversies. At the time, RC Lens was still in direct competition with PSG for the championship, giving this match a final-like atmosphere. Ultimately, in a different context, PSG had the opportunity to be crowned champions in case of a victory. Fueled by their recent qualification for the Champions League final, Luis Enrique’s men arrived with confidence, just like Lens players who were on a positive streak before their French Cup final against Nice on May 22.
For this match, Enrique had chosen to field a team balancing rotations and offensive ambitions. The Spanish coach notably trusted a forward quartet composed of Ballon d’Or winner Dembele, Kvaratskhelia, Doue, and Barcola. Youngster Dro also made his debut in midfield while Mayulu started on the right side of defense.
On the other side, Pierre Sage also made several adjustments, leaving Saint-Maximin and Thauvin on the bench at kickoff. RC Lens centered around an attacking trio of Edouard, Sima, and Saïd, with Thomasson leading the midfield, Sarr in central defense, and Risser in goal. From the outset, Parisians quickly dominated possession and set the pace in Lens’ territory. However, Dembele caused a scare in the 7th minute with a dangerous cross that almost found a recipient. After several sequences of possession from both sides, RC Lens had a great chance with Edouard, who failed to score against Safonov with a poorly executed shot (17th). As the two teams neutralized each other, Dembele made a skillful side move and dribble past Thomasson in a double touch situation (25th).
As often this season, PSG’s key players Dembele and Kvaratskhelia guided the team. Following a ball loss by Sarr due to Dembele’s pressing, Dembele perfectly set up “Kvara” to score from close range and open the scoring (0-1, 29th). The Georgian thus scored his 19th goal of the season. Lens almost equalized moments later, but Edouard missed his header, with Saïd also missing the target shortly after. Safonov then made a crucial reflex save to deny Saïd from close range after a cross from Aguilar.
At the start of the second half, Enrique subbed Barcola for Vitinha to regain control of the ball and slow down the pace. Despite this, Lens continued to push and nearly equalized in the 54th minute. Sima, outpacing the Parisian defense, had his shot saved by Safonov. Lens suffered a blow with Baidoo’s muscular injury, leading to his substitution. Thauvin and Saint-Maximin came on to rejuvenate the team’s attack. However, Lens lacked luck, especially with a dangerous shot from Saint-Maximin and a missed opportunity by Sima hitting the post despite Safonov being beaten.
The match also saw the introduction of young PSG talents, including Dimitri Lucea making his professional debut. Thauvin momentarily thought he had scored, but it was disallowed for offside. PSG managed their lead and secured the win with Mbaye’s superb goal (0-2) before controlling the game until the end to secure the Ligue 1 clash. This victory marks PSG’s 14th Ligue 1 title, as they now look ahead to the Champions League final against Arsenal. In Budapest on May 30, they will have the chance to defend their European title and further engrave the club’s history. For now, Luis Enrique’s men can celebrate.
Published on 13/05/2026 at 22:58, Updated on 14/05/2026 at 00:33.
