Lens face Sporting CP under the guidance of Yannick Cahuzac

RC Lens hosts Sporting CP this Tuesday at 18:45 for the second matchday of the Champions League group stage, marking Yannick Cahuzac's debut at the helm of the Artois club. After the 2-3 victory over Slavia Prague on the first matchday, the Blood and Gold are looking to consolidate their place among the top nine in the standings.

A coach in training

Lens coach Yannick Cahuzac is currently pursuing his qualifications at Clairefontaine, but has obtained a special exemption to be on the bench this Tuesday. This crazy day, announced at 8 a.m. via video link, showcases the dual role of the manager between the academy and the Champions League.

Home defensive record

Lens has suffered only one home defeat in the Champions League, against Dynamo Kyiv (1-3) in December 1999, and has remained unbeaten at home for ten matches in European cups. However, the club has not kept a clean‑sheet for fourteen games, the most recent being a 1-0 win over Arsenal at Wembley in November 1998.

Sporting CP, for their part, have scored at least one goal in each of their last twenty‑five group matches in European cups, after a 3-1 victory over Galatasaray on the first matchday.

Cahuzac secures exceptional waiver to lead Lens against Sporting in Champions League

The 23‑man squad called up by Cahuzac includes Jean‑Claude Todibo and Thorgan Hazard, while Jonathan Gradit, Maik Nawrocki and Abdallah Sima are unavailable. Florian Sotoca, a convincing scorer against Lyon, could earn a second start.

The Bollaert Stadium this season allows a limited number of standing places, located in the Marek, Delacourt and Trannin stands, in line with UEFA requirements.

Cahuzac banks on three comebacks for his Champions League match

The match will be broadcast live on, giving supporters the opportunity to follow every action in real time.