RC Lens – Paris Saint-Germain: Lens Inflict The League Leaders With Their First Defeat (3-1)

RC Lens have been one of the success stories in Ligue 1 in the last two years, but this fixture was perhaps the most impressive chapter in the tale. Seizing their opportunity against the sluggish favorites, they took a sizeable step in making another mark upon their return to the top flight.

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Christophe Galtier has superbly settled into the hot seat in the French capital. His first port of call was getting the most out of his otherworldly offensive talent on PSG's roster, and success in this realm has taken the burden of tactical work off his shoulders. A five point lead at the top of the table before the World Cup break indicates the Ligue 1 trophy should remain in the hands of the reigning champions.

Their nearest challengers are RC Lens, whose project has benefited from the stability of leadership. In 2020, Franck Haise walked into a club on the cusp of promotion from Ligue 2, but no one could have foreseen what would come under his stewardship. Finishing in the top seven for two years on the spin has firmly rooted the team in the . . .