Lens on the Brink of Ligue 1 Promotion After Thrashing Istres
Lens is one step closer to securing promotion to Ligue 1 after a commanding 6-1 victory over Istres on Tuesday, during Matchday 36 of Ligue 2. With just two matches left to play, the northern club has opened up a five-point gap over Nancy, putting them in an excellent position to return to France’s top division. A single point from their remaining fixtures will be enough to guarantee their promotion.
Lens head coach Antoine Kombouaré was understandably pleased with his team’s performance and the results of their season so far. “I never doubted it. I have confidence in my squad. The championship is the reward for a whole season’s work. Since the beginning, we’ve been on this podium and I don’t see how we could not be there,” Kombouaré said, reflecting on the steady progression of his team throughout the campaign.
The Kanak coach emphasized that while the promotion is nearly secured, there is still work to be done. “When we work, it’s in that direction. This is only the culmination of our work, but it’s not done yet so we’ll have to finish the job against Brest on Friday,” Kombouaré added, setting his sights on the final steps of the season. “That’s what I’m waiting for, so that we can then go to Bastia in flip-flops,” he joked, signaling his team’s confidence and focus on finishing the job.
The victory over Istres has set Lens up perfectly for the final stretch of the season, with promotion now within their grasp. As Kombouaré suggests, the team’s hard work is nearing its reward, and they will be eager to wrap up their campaign on a high note against Brest before looking ahead to their final match against Bastia.
For Lens, it’s been a season of consistency, and barring any surprises, the Blood and Gold are now on the cusp of securing their long-awaited return to Ligue 1 after several years away.
Tags: France, Lens, Ligue 2, Promotion, Antoine Kombouaré, Football
