Lens deny Paris FC the top spot as Thauvin delivers goal and assist

Lens secured a 2-1 victory over Paris FC in Ligue 1 on Saturday night, with Florian Thauvin scoring in the 63rd minute and delivering the decisive assist three minutes later. The result also pushes Lens back into contention for European qualification.

Paris FC took the initiative early, as Luca Koleosho struck from a cross to put Bollaert behind before half‑time, registering the opening goal at 45+2 minutes. The early lead gave Paris FC momentum, but they could not extend it.

Lens had to manage frustration in the first half, with Obed Nkambadio featuring prominently on the left, battling Florian Sotoca’s set‑piece at the 26th minute and later disrupting a free‑kick attempt at 31 minutes. His efforts helped Lens regain balance before Thauvin’s impact.

Thauvin's decisive contributions

The French forward equalised in the 63rd minute with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, then, after a swift counter‑attack, floated a cross that found Thorgan Hazard, whose left‑footed shot restored the lead at 83 minutes. Hazard’s finish sealed the win, leaving Paris FC unable to respond.

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Thauvin now boasts involvement in twelve goals across eight Ligue 1 matchdays – five scores and seven assists – making him the league’s leading creator. His creative output has drawn praise across the league.

The victory marks Lens’s third consecutive Ligue 1 win and keeps the club within a point of the table‑top, while Paris FC (PFC) missed the chance to overtake the leaders. The club remains just one point shy of the top spot.

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Zinédine Zidane will soon have to decide on his national team squad, and Thauvin’s form adds pressure as the new selection list approaches. His performances could tip the balance in Zidane’s selection dilemma.