Lens Claims Derby Glory as Thauvin Shines Against Former Club
The derby du Nord between Lens and Lille is always a fiery clash, but this edition carried extra weight. It was not just about the local bragging rights in Ligue 1—it was also about Florian Thauvin stepping onto the Bollaert pitch in Lens colors for his very first northern derby. For Lille fans, the sight stirred up old memories that have never quite healed.
The match itself unfolded with all the intensity expected of such a rivalry. Lens started brightly, pushing forward with energy and purpose. Wesley Saïd broke the deadlock in the 28th minute after a decisive corner. A scramble in the box ended with the ball sneaking past into the net, sending the home supporters into a frenzy. From there, momentum seemed to lean heavily toward the Sang et Or.
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Thauvin, who had once been at the heart of a bitter chapter with Lille back in 2013, would not let the evening pass quietly. Just before half-time, in the 43rd minute, a misplaced ball from the Lille defense was pounced upon. Saïd pressed, forcing an error, and although his pass missed the target, Thauvin was there to collect. With composure, he shifted onto his left foot and curled it into the corner. Bollaert erupted. Lens had doubled their lead, and the break was secured.
What made this goal even more symbolic was the history behind it. Over a decade ago, Thauvin had signed for Lille but never played a single competitive match. His departure to Marseille after a training-ground standoff left a sour taste among the Dogues’ faithful. They saw betrayal, while he claimed it was ambition. Fast forward to 2025, his arrival at Lens in August reignited that old wound. The chants and whistles from the Lille fans in the stands showed that, for them, time had not fully erased the past.
Despite Lille’s efforts, their chances lacked precision. Early on, Haraldsson and Correia came close, forcing Lens keeper Risser into key saves. Later, Rayan Fofana had a golden opportunity to extend Lens’ lead but missed the target in dramatic fashion. The weather also played its part, with pouring rain and the smoke of countless flares drifting across the stadium. Yet nothing seemed to dampen Lens’ rhythm.
By the final whistle, the score stood at 2-0. Lens had not only claimed victory in one of the most passionate derbies of French football but had also found an unlikely hero in Thauvin—the very player Lille fans still struggle to forgive. For Lens supporters, his redemption arc could not have been scripted better.
This derby reminded everyone why football in the north of France carries such raw emotion. It was about pride, memory, and identity, all rolled into ninety minutes. And on this night, it was Lens who stood tallest, their fans leaving the Bollaert with songs on their lips and a derby triumph to cherish.
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