It’s been quite a journey for Lens since that memorable clash with Arsenal at Wembley in the Champions League back in 1998. Fast forward 21 years, and Lens is once again preparing for a Champions League showdown, this time on their home turf. But what has transpired in the intervening years for this French side?
Lens, fresh off their lone French title, squared off against Arsenal twice in the 1998-99 Champions League group stages. The first encounter ended in a 1-1 draw in France, setting the stage for an unforgettable victory at Wembley, where the Gunners hosted their European matches at the time. But their rivalry didn’t stop there. The following season, they crossed paths again in the Uefa Cup semi-finals, with Arsenal prevailing 3-1 on aggregate, although they would go on to lose the final to Galatasaray.
Since those heady days, Lens has experienced its share of ups and downs. They made a single appearance in the Champions League, exiting during the first of two group stages in the 2002-03 season. Relegation and promotion became a familiar cycle for Lens, and not always due solely to their on-field performances.
However, Lens is back on the rise. In 2020, they made a remarkable resurgence and even challenged Paris St-Germain for the Ligue 1 title last season, all while operating on a limited budget. What’s truly impressive is how they’ve achieved this feat with relatively unknown or lesser-known players, some plucked from the second division or foreign leagues.
Coach Franck Haise’s trademark 3-4-2-1 formation emphasizes forward play, high pressing, and intensity. This tactical approach has been key to their recent success.
But let’s not forget the tumultuous years when Lens found themselves bouncing between Ligue 1 and 2. In 2007-08, they began with the legendary Guy Roux at the helm but ended with relegation. Roux’s brief return to coaching ended after just four games, with him admitting to losing the drive required to coach at the highest level.
Lens would go on to secure promotion to Ligue 1 in 2009 but were relegated again two years later. In 2014, they earned promotion once more, but it was a saga filled with financial obstacles and legal battles. Eventually, they were granted entry to Ligue 1, but the drama continued as a court ruled their eventual relegation back to Ligue 2 for the 2014-15 season, irrespective of their performance.
After a rollercoaster ride in Ligue 2, Lens found themselves in an unexpected position for promotion when the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the 2019-20 season. With Haise newly appointed as manager, they won their remaining games and secured promotion to Ligue 1.
Haise continued to work his magic, leading Lens to seventh, seventh, and a remarkable second-place finish in Ligue 1, just one point behind Paris St-Germain. Their total of 84 points was the second-highest for any non-title-winning team.
The culmination of this incredible journey came with a 3-0 win over Ajaccio, securing Lens’ third-ever Champions League campaign. The Lens faithful at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis were treated to the famous Champions League anthem, and fireworks lit up the sky, celebrating their return to Europe’s premier club competition.
Throughout their trials and tribulations, Lens maintained a loyal fanbase, with more season-ticket holders than the population of their home city. On the pitch, they produced outstanding players, including Brice Samba, Kevin Danso, Seko Fofana, and Lois Openda, who all featured in last season’s Ligue 1 team of the season.
Despite the loss of key players like Openda and Fofana, Lens is gearing up for their Champions League campaign, coming off wins in Ligue 1 against Toulouse and Strasbourg. It’s a testament to their resilience and determination that they find themselves back on the European stage.
As they face Arsenal once again, Lens may not have forgotten their past encounters, but they are certainly focused on the future. The journey from yo-yoing between leagues to challenging the giants of Ligue 1 and returning to the Champions League is a story of unwavering commitment and the enduring spirit of this remarkable club.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Resilient Revival
Q: What was the outcome of Lens’ encounters with Arsenal in the 1998-99 Champions League?
A: Lens drew 1-1 with Arsenal in France and secured a memorable victory at Wembley.
Q: How has Lens performed in recent years, especially in Ligue 1?
A: Lens has made a remarkable resurgence, challenging PSG for the Ligue 1 title and earning a spot in the Champions League.
Q: Who are some key players in the Lens squad that contributed to their success?
A: Notable players include Brice Samba, Kevin Danso, Seko Fofana, and Lois Openda, who all featured in the Ligue 1 team of the season.
Q: What challenges did Lens face in their journey, including relegation and promotion?
A: Lens faced a turbulent period of relegations and promotions, financial hurdles, and even legal battles before making it back to Ligue 1.
Q: Who is the coach of Lens, and what is his tactical approach?
A: Lens is coached by Franck Haise, known for his 3-4-2-1 formation, emphasizing forward play, high pressing, and intensity.
Q: How did Lens secure their recent promotion to Ligue 1 during the Covid-19 pandemic?
A: Lens secured promotion during the pandemic when the season was disrupted, and they won their remaining games under the management of Franck Haise.
Q: What is remarkable about Lens’ fanbase?
A: Lens boasts a passionate fanbase with more season-ticket holders than the population of their home city, showing unwavering support for the club.
2 comments
wow, this story amazin lense, ups & downs, champs league & relegation, cool!
Lenz iz like a movie plot, action, drama, and now they’re back in champs league. lit!