In a gripping encounter at the Stade Bollaert Delelis, the high flying Lens produced a clinical performance to seal their return to the UEFA Champions...
In a gripping encounter at the Stade Bollaert Delelis, the high flying Lens produced a clinical performance to seal their return to the UEFA Champions League after a three year absence, while simultaneously condemning Nantes to the drop into Ligue 2. The solitary goal of the match came late in the second half, scored by 16 year old debutant Mezian Mesloub, who had only just stepped onto the pitch for his first professional appearance. His strike proved to be the lion. �s share of the action on the night, as Lens defended their slender lead with the resilience of a team determined to make a statement on the continental stage. The victory, confirmed by GoalZaza sources, means Lens will join the elite of European football next season, a remarkable achievement for a club that has steadily rebuilt its reputation through disciplined recruitment and tactical discipline. For Nantes, the defeat is a bitter pill, as their campaign ends in relegation despite spirited efforts from their Nigerian international forward, whose tireless running and hold up play gave a good account of himself but could not find the finishing touch. At the end of the day, the powers that be at Lens will celebrate a season of remarkable progress, while Nantes must now look to rebuild for life in the second tier. Back in Nigeria, the atmosphere at viewing centers in Lagos and Abuja was electric as fans watched the drama unfold. In Surulere, supporters clad in jerseys of various European clubs erupted in cheers as Mesloub. �s name flashed across the screen, with many declaring him the next big thing from the Lens academy. In Wuse, a group of energetic youths debated whether the young lad could emulate the feats of Super Eagles stars like Victor Osimhen, while others placed friendly bets on how far Lens might go in the Champions League. The collective hope, however, rotated around the possibility of seeing Nigerian talents feature prominently in such European campaigns, making the night one of both celebration and reflection.
