PARIS (AP) — Defender Ruben Aguilar was shown a red card shortly after netting his team’s second goal as Lens came from behind to defeat Rennes 3-1 and claim the top spot in Ligue 1 on Saturday. Recent signing Allan Saint-Maximin scored a spectacular third goal in the final moments, helping Lens move one point ahead of reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain, who prepare to face their rivals Marseille on Sunday.
In the 54th minute, French winger Florian Thauvin delivered a precise cross from the left, which Aguilar converted with a header from close range. However, just two minutes later, Aguilar received a second yellow card following a reckless challenge from behind. Despite playing with ten men, Lens extended their lead in the 78th minute when goalkeeper Robin Risser launched a long ball that Saint-Maximin controlled skillfully on the left flank. He then sped past two defenders and unleashed a shot that deflected into the corner of the net, celebrating with a backflip.
Saint-Maximin, who turns 29 next month, was once hailed as a teenage sensation when he emerged at Saint-Etienne 12 years ago. Although he showed flashes of brilliance during his time with Premier League sides Nice and Newcastle, his career has fallen short of early expectations. After moving to Saudi Arabian club Al Ahly and enduring a forced loan spell at Turkey’s Fenerbahce, followed by a brief stint at Club América in Mexico, he joined Lens at the end of the winter transfer window.
Lens, in strong position to vie for both the league title and French Cup, offers Saint-Maximin a fresh opportunity to revive his career. Rennes took an early lead when forward Esteban Le Port converted a clean finish, assisted by a clever run from Arnaud Nordan that outmaneuvered the left-back. Lens equalized just before halftime as striker Odsonne Edouard controlled a long ball, held off defenders, and slid a shot through goalkeeper Matisse Silistry’s legs.
Later Saturday matches include Brest hosting Lorient and an away game for resurgent Lyon against Nantes, where Lyon aims to extend their winning streak to twelve games across all competitions.
AP Soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Fan Take: While this is soccer news, basketball fans should take note of how Saint-Maximin’s career resurgence highlights the importance of perseverance and adapting to new environments—valuable lessons for any athlete. Additionally, Lens climbing to the top spot signals the potential for fresh competition in European sports, which could inspire cross-sport fan engagement and increased global interest.
