Ahmed Kantari Backs Lens to Fight for Survival Ahead of Marseille Clash
By BBC Sport France
Marseille, France
As RC Lens prepare to face Olympique de Marseille at the Vélodrome, defender Ahmed Kantari remains confident in his side’s ability to avoid relegation from Ligue 1.
Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, the Franco-Moroccan centre-back expressed his belief that Antoine Kombouaré’s men are capable of staying in the top flight — despite sitting dangerously close to the relegation zone.
“I’m convinced we can do it,” Kantari told L’Équipe. “We’re not doomed in advance. Yes, it will be tough. It will demand commitment every single day and leave us with no margin for error.”
The 29-year-old, who joined Lens after a spell at Brest, acknowledged the enormity of the challenge ahead. “To stay up would be an achievement,” he admitted, underlining the tightrope that the northern club must walk over the remaining months of the season.
Lens face a daunting task on Sunday night against a Marseille side that has been described as “raging” and eager to bounce back from recent frustrations. Marcelo Bielsa’s OM remain in the Ligue 1 title race and will be looking to take all three points on home soil.
Despite the odds, Kombouaré is said to be placing his trust in a solid defensive setup to contain the Marseille attack — and Kantari is expected to play a key role in executing that game plan.
“We’re aware of the threat Marseille pose,” Kantari said. “But we’ve also shown that when we’re compact and united, we can frustrate good teams. We’ll have to be smart, focused, and brave.”
With just a few points separating the bottom half of the table, every fixture is becoming increasingly vital for Lens in their bid to stay afloat. A positive result at the Vélodrome could provide a much-needed boost in confidence and momentum.
Kombouaré, who has guided teams through similar situations in the past, will be hoping his players rise to the occasion. As the battle for survival intensifies, the Lens faithful will be hoping Kantari’s belief in the squad proves well-founded.
