Florian Thauvin delivered a standout performance for his 300th Ligue 1 appearance on Saturday, October 24, 2026, scoring once and providing an assist to help RC Lens defeat the Paris FC 2-1 at Bollaert during the eighth matchday of the French top flight.
Lens Falls Behind Before Thauvin Ignites the Comeback
Despite dominating possession under a heavy downpour during the opening 45 minutes, RC Lens failed to convert their chances against a resilient Paris FC defense. Paris goalkeeper Obed Nkambadio stood firm against early attempts from Thauvin and Amadou Haidara. The match took a sharp turn just before halftime when Paris FC capitalized on a swift counter-attack. Luca Koleosho linked up with Lassine Sinayoko in stoppage time to bypass defenders Samson Baidoo and Jean-Clair Todibo, slotting past the Lens defense to give the visitors a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
The scenario mirrored a difficult week for Lens, who suffered a 3-0 defeat against Bruges in the UEFA Champions League just four days earlier. However, manager Yannick Cahuzac’s side responded immediately after the interval. Thauvin leveled the score in the 63rd minute by collecting a neat return pass from Thorgan Hazard, cutting inside, and unleashing a powerful strike past Nkambadio at the near post. The goal marked Thauvin’s fourth of the Ligue 1 campaign.
Thauvin and Hazard Reverse Roles to Secure Victory
The combination of Thauvin and Hazard struck again in the 83rd minute to seal the three points. Thauvin delivered a precise cross into the box that Florian Sotoca cleverly let run through his legs, allowing Hazard to finish cleanly with his left foot. The strike marked Hazard’s first goal for his new club and lifted the decibel levels at Bollaert.
Grâce à un but et une passe décisive, Thauvin a porté son total à quatre buts et huit passes décisives en Ligue 1 cette saison. The result extends Lens’ winning streak in the league to three matches.
RC Lens Moves into Sixth Place in Ligue 1
The 2-1 victory moves RC Lens provisionally into sixth place in the Ligue 1 standings, sitting just one point behind the leading group of teams. Meanwhile, Paris FC missed an opportunity to claim sole possession of first place in the table. Liam Rosenior’s side dropped points after shifting to a 3-4-3 system in the second half, which temporarily stabilized their defense before Lens’ late surge broke through.
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