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In a landmark fixture for RC Lens Féminines, the newly promoted side held Paris Saint-Germain Féminines to a 1–1 draw at Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Saturday evening. The match marked Lens’ debut in France’s top-tier women’s football league, the Arkema Première Ligue, and they showcased resilience against a PSG team aiming for early-season momentum.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | RC Lens | PSG |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 36% | 64% |
| Total Shots | 7 | 16 |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 5 |
| Corners | 3 | 7 |
| Fouls | 10 | 10 |
| Passes | 280 | 498 |
| Tackles Won | 74% | 71% |
| Goalkeeper Saves | 4 | 1 |
Key Moments & Match Flow
The game commenced with PSG asserting dominance, and they broke the deadlock in the 25th minute. A well-timed assist from Joe Echegini found Merveille Kanjinga, who slotted home from the right side of the box. Despite the early setback, Lens remained steadfast, with goalkeeper Blandine Joly making crucial saves to keep the team in contention.
In the second half, Lens intensified their efforts. Substitute Sherly Jeudy made an immediate impact, heading in a cross from Kaïna El Koumir in the 84th minute to equalize. The match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils, reflecting Lens’ commendable performance against a seasoned PSG side
RC Lens adopted a compact 3–4–3 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and quick transitions. Their low possession rate (36%) was indicative of a counter-attacking strategy, which proved effective as they capitalized on set-pieces and crosses into the box. The introduction of Sherly Jeudy added a dynamic aerial threat, leading to the equalizing goal.
PSG, with a 5–3–2 setup, dominated possession but struggled to break down Lens’ disciplined defense. Despite numerous shots (16), they found it challenging to convert opportunities, with Lens’ defensive organization and Joly’s goalkeeping proving formidable.
Player of the Match: Merveille Kanjinga was decisive for PSG, opening the scoring and constantly threatening Lens’ defense. Her movement, composure in the box, and finishing ability were standout elements, making her the clear choice for Player of the Match despite PSG being held to a draw.
Lineups
RC Lens Féminines (3–4–3)
Blandine Joly (c), Jennyfer Limage, Romane Lejeune, Laureen Oillic, Fany Proniez, Clara Bertrand, Dayana Pierre-Louis, Laurine Pinot, Louann Archier, Noémie Vagre, Aude Gbedjissi
Paris Saint-Germain Féminines (5–3–2)
Mary Earps, Crystal Dunn, Griedge Mbock, Élisa De Almeida, Griedge Mbock, Tara Elimbi Gilbert, Joe Echegini , Jackie Groenen, Sakina Karchaoui (c)Manon Revelli, Jennyfer Limage
RC Lens’ debut in the Arkema Première Ligue was nothing short of historic. Facing a formidable PSG side, they showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and a never say die attitude. The 1–1 draw not only marks a significant achievement for the club but also sets a promising tone for the season ahead. With performances like this, Lens has announced their arrival in France’s top-tier women’s football league.
