PSG’s remarkable unbeaten run came to a stunning end on New Year’s Day, as they succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Lens in a highly anticipated Ligue 1 clash. Without the creative spark of Lionel Messi and the skillful Neymar, PSG’s attack lacked its usual flair, allowing Lens to capitalize on their errors.
The hosts seized the initiative, with Przemysław Frankowski netting the opener in the fifth minute. PSG swiftly restored parity through Hugo Ekitiké’s clinical finish, but Lens regained the upper hand midway through the first half courtesy of Loïs Openda’s mesmerizing individual brilliance.
Openda’s ingenious backheel assist to Alexis Claude-Maurice in the second half sealed the triumph for Lens, shattering PSG’s 32-game unbeaten streak.
The setback narrows PSG’s advantage at the Ligue 1 summit, with Lens now hot on their heels, trailing by just four points. Coach Christophe Galtier conceded that his team’s mistakes and lack of cohesion had cost them dearly, but vowed to rectify the issues and bounce back stronger.
“We were punished for our errors and lost our shape,” Galtier acknowledged. “We’ll work tirelessly to address our shortcomings and emerge stronger.”
The victory extends Lens’ impressive unbeaten run on home soil and marks their seventh consecutive league game without defeat. As the season reaches its climax, the battle for Ligue 1 supremacy is shaping up to be a thrilling contest between these two elite teams.