Lens denied Paris Saint-Germain a second trophy in five days, securing a 1-0 victory in the French Champions’ Trophy thanks to a first-half strike from Florian Thauvin. The win marks another milestone for Lens, who lifted the French Cup in May under previous coach Pierre Sage and claimed their first Champions’ Trophy in their first match with new boss Dino Toppmoeller.
Despite going down to ten men before halftime—Kyllian Antonio was sent off for a studs-up tackle—Lens held firm. PSG, fresh off a UEFA Super Cup win over Aston Villa, struggled at Stade Bollaert-Delelis. The Paris giants, who dominated possession, failed to break down the home side’s defense, and late substitute Nuno Mendes was also dismissed for a straight red in the dying minutes.
“I think we deserved more,” said PSG coach Luis Enrique. “But I have to congratulate Lens—they won, and they played very well, with their usual intensity.”
Lens snatched the lead in the 32nd minute when PSG failed to clear their lines and Thauvin finished at the back post from Matthieu Udol’s cross-shot. PSG’s best chance came just before halftime, as Desire Doue rattled the crossbar from a tight angle.
Despite bringing on attacking reinforcements like Fabian Ruiz and Ousmane Dembele, PSG couldn’t find a way through, with Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser standing firm.
PSG now turn their attention to their Ligue 1 opener against Rennes next week, but will be without Mendes due to suspension. Lens, last season’s Ligue 1 runners-up, continue to build momentum as they prepare to defend their French Cup title.
