The Lensois knew the roadmap to continue their European adventure: not to lose against Sevilla FC on Tuesday during the 6th day of Group B of the Champions League. It’s done. This Tuesday evening, for the last match of the group stages, the Sang et Or scored a victory against Sevilla FC (2-1). And therefore ensure a play-off in the Europa League. Lens opened the scoring thanks to a penalty goal from Frankowski (63rd) then Sergio Ramos, also from the penalty spot (79th), tied the two teams. But at the end of the game (90th 6th), Fulgini, on an opening from Sotoca, set Bollaert on fire.
Two weeks after the slap received by Arsenal (6-0) and having said goodbye to qualification in the round of 16, Franck Haise’s men were manhandled for an hour by the Andalusians in search of their first victory in the competition. Hindered by the intensity and the opposing tactical system, they suffered without being able to break away from the embrace, culminating in a dry strike from Rakitic. The Croatian’s shot, which was flying under Samba’s bar, was narrowly deflected by the goalkeeper (29th).
Forced to reveal themselves in order to hope to win and regain the Europa League, the Sevillians continued their work of undermining without really worrying the Sang et Or goalkeeper. It took an unsteady recovery from the premises for Pedrosa to find the right footing. Samba (57th). In the process, during one of their first forays into the opposing area, the Artéiens obtained a penalty following a collision by Soumaré on Medina. The opportunity was too good for Frankowski, who left Dmitrovic no chance (1-0, 62nd).
A short-lived joy, since Sevilla, which has not won a single championship or European Cup match since September 26, took advantage of a mistake by Medina in the area to equalize on a penalty. Ramos did it twice: Samba had diverted his shot while having both feet off the goal line (1-1, 80th).
The last runner-up in L1 lowered his block to resist in the final moments, until the deliverance of Fuglini on a high recovery from Sotoca (2-1, 90th 6th). He took the opportunity to improve his statistics, with 20 points out of 24 possible in his last 8 home matches (6 wins, two draws).
Third in its group, the RCL will play a play-off against the 2nd in the Europa League groups next February. The winners of these play-offs will qualify for the round of 16 of the C3. Reigning champion and seven-time winner of the competition, Sevilla FC will not have the opportunity to defend their title this season.
