Amadou Haidara provides RC Lens boost after Mali display

Amadou Haidara has given RC Lens an encouraging reminder of his quality after delivering an influential performance for Mali in their 3-1 victory over Cape Verde.

The 28-year-old midfielder, who joined Lens in January 2026, played 60 minutes in Anthony Da Silva’s 4-2-3-1 system before being replaced in the 61st minute. He made his biggest contribution by heading a corner toward Nene Dorgelès, who converted Mali’s second goal.

Haïdara’s display was especially welcome after several physical setbacks disrupted his early months in northern France. Journalist Drissa Traoré awarded him 8/10 and described him as “the metronome of the new 4-2-3-1 system,” highlighting his ability to recover possession and move the ball quickly.

The statistics supported that assessment. Haïdara completed 98 percent of his passes, achieved a perfect record with long-range distribution and won every ground and aerial duel. He later described his performance as “satisfactory” while praising Mali’s collective effort.

Lens could now benefit from a sharper, more confident Haïdara when Ligue 1 resumes. Yannick Cahuzac’s team will host Lyon at Bollaert on October 9, offering the midfielder an opportunity to push for a more prominent role.