LIGUE 2: KOMBOUARÉ AND LENS END THE YEAR BADLY

Lens, led by coach Antoine Kombouaré, experienced disappointment as they lost 1-2 at home against Istres in the opening match of the 18th day of Ligue 2. Despite the setback, Lens had the opportunity to close the gap to just one point behind the league leaders Metz. However, this defeat marked their first loss at home, leaving them with mixed feelings as they head into the winter break.

While Lens is satisfied with their overall performance in the first half of the season, being in contention for promotion to Ligue 1, the disappointment of ending 2013 with a home defeat is palpable. The loss might result in Lens falling from the podium if Tours and Angers secure victories in their respective matches.

Antoine Kombouaré expressed his disappointment with the team’s performance, stating, “It’s a big disappointment. We were not present. We left a lot of space. We had situations to open the score, we had situations to take the advantage… My players tried, there are days when we are not there.” Despite the setback, Kombouaré remains focused on building the second part of the season and acknowledges the challenges of a tough and competitive championship.