Lens finds a hero in Ganiou and halts Strasbourg

Saturday afternoon at Bollaert-Delelis delivered an intense and decisive spectacle. Ismaëlo Ganiou, an unexpected starter due to Jonathan Gradit’s injury, became the hero no one saw coming. His goal in the 70th minute secured victory for Lens over Strasbourg, lifting Les Sang et Or to provisional second place in the Ligue 1 standings.

The match began with high pressing from Lens, seeking to impose their rhythm from the very first minute. Although Florian Thauvin had the first opportunity following an error from Ben Chilwell, it was Mike Penders, the visiting goalkeeper, who kept Strasbourg in the game with a double save before halftime. The goalless scoreline reflected the tension and intensity of a clash between third and fourth in the table.

Ganiou: the young player who changed the story

Just when it seemed the match was heading for a draw, Ismaëlo Ganiou appeared in the box to pounce on a loose ball and score the decisive goal. The defender’s precision and composure revealed unexpected talent and marked a crucial moment for Lens, which relies on its solid defense to remain in the title race.

Ganiou’s goal not only secured three points but also delivered a psychological blow to Strasbourg, whose European dream was temporarily halted. The red card shown to Valentín Barco in the 77th minute worsened the visitors’ situation, leaving them with ten men and no room to recover.

Strasbourg hit and on alert

Strasbourg, fourth in the standings before the match, displayed their characteristic energy and intensity but struggled under Lens’ pressure and adverse circumstances. The suspension of Liam Rosenior and the lack of depth in their attacking options limited their response. Despite possession and some dangerous attempts, such as Emanuel Emegha’s effort, they failed to breach Lens’ goal, leaving the visitors with a defeat that damages their European ambitions.

Lens asserts itself and eyes the podium

With this victory, Lens extends its unbeaten home run to five matches and firmly places itself among the leaders of Ligue 1 McDonald’s. Pierre Sage’s team now aims to maintain this momentum against  their next rivals, consolidating its position and proving that even with unexpected scenarios, they can dominate European contenders. Meanwhile, Strasbourg will need to recover from this blow before upcoming international commitments, starting with Crystal Palace in the Conference League.