Cinderella duel in the Champions League between Lens and Como

Lens and Como will face each other tonight in the Champions League, a meeting that years ago seemed impossible, as both clubs have risen in record time.

The rise and miracle of Lens

The French club rose to Ligue 1 in 2021 and staged a miracle last season. The Italians were in Serie D in 2019. The clash is unprecedented in Europe and brings together two distinct yet ambitious projects.

Since its sale to Robert and Michael Hartono in 2019, Como has not seen its expansion slow down. With Cesc as the visible face, the investments have delivered four promotions in five years and a qualification for the Champions League in its second season in the elite.

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Como's meteoric project

Signings such as Nico Paz, Luis Milla, Jacobo Ramón, Da Cunha and Baturina have established Como as one of the best teams in Italian football. Their 4-1 victory over Manchester United puts Lens on alert, as it has risen from its ashes to mingle with European aristocracy. Under the guidance of Joseph Oughourlian, Lens has achieved two qualifications for the Champions League since its promotion to Ligue 1 in 2020.

In the summer, Lens sold its best players and lost its coach, but managed to get back on track, earning 3 points out of a possible 9. Lens is a modest team, without stars and without a large investment group behind it, unlike Como.

Thauvin in lineup, Baturina out: Lens vs Como, League Phase round

Lens's lineup will be: Risser; Aguilar, Baidoo, Antonio, Todibo, Udol – Cuisance, Haïdara; Thauvin, Ivanovic, Sotoca. Como's lineup will be: Butez; Smolcic, Kempf, Ramón, Valle – Perrone, Ricci; Da Cunha, Paz, Baturina; Douvikas. The referee will be Rohit Saggi from Norway. The stadium will be the Bollaert‑Delelis.