Lens' European Dreams Fade After Costly Defeat to Reims

RC Lens suffered a major setback in their pursuit of European qualification, falling 2-0 to Stade de Reims in Matchday 29 of Ligue 1.

Japanese forward Keito Nakamura was the hero for the visitors, striking twice — first in the 33rd minute and then delivering the killer blow in the 88th — to seal a crucial win for Reims. The defeat leaves Lens, who were hopeful of climbing into the European spots, languishing in ninth place, while Reims jump to 14th in the table.

2024-25, France - Ligue 1

Lens - Reims 0:2 (0:1)
Goals: Nakamura, 33 (0:1); Nakamura, 88 (0:2)

Lens: Ryan M.; Machado D. (Fulgini, 21); Medina F.; Gradit; Bah (Sarr Mal., 40); Antonio K. (Pouilly, 46); Koyalipou (Saïd W., 62); Thomasson; Sotoca (Nzola, 77); Diouf A. (Ojediran, 77); Zaroury
Bench: Koffi; Mendy N.; Agbonifo
Yellow Cards: Medina F. 81

Reims: Diouf Y.; Sekine; Akieme; Buta A. (Kone Ab., 78); Jeng M. (Sangui, 55); Gbane; Edoa; Koné Am. (Patrick Finn, 64); Ito J. (Tia A., 78); Siebatcheu (Ibrahim H., 46); Nakamura (Moscardo, 90)
Bench: Olliero; Teuma; Diakité Oumar