Senegalese forward Abdallah Sima revels in last-gasp winner for RC Lens at Auxerre

Abdallah Sima struck a dramatic stoppage-time goal to hand RC Lens a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Auxerre on Saturday, marking his first goal for the club since arriving in the summer.

The 24-year-old Senegalese forward’s decisive header came at the perfect moment, rescuing a ten-man Lens side in a tense Ligue 1 encounter.

Making only his second appearance for Racing Club de Lens, Sima entered the match in the closing stages, replacing Florian Thauvin for the final ten minutes.

With the game finely balanced and Lens down to ten men, the former Slavia Prague and Brighton striker seized his opportunity, converting a near-post header in the dying seconds to secure a crucial away win.

It was a tough match for us, Sima admitted to Ligue 1+. We knew it wasn’t easy to come here and win. We had to work hard. The guys did the job, and it was up to us (the finishers) to help them too. I’m happy to have scored the winning goal. We came here to win. We knew they had this weakness at the near post, we saw it on video. I’m happy it fell to me. That’s our mentality. Even with ten men, we can do something. Honestly, they’re a good team, with guys who work hard every day. I’m happy to have helped the team.

His words reflected not only the intensity of the contest but also the preparation and tactical awareness that went into Lens’s performance.

The forward’s reference to exploiting Auxerre’s near-post vulnerability underlines how meticulous planning can turn decisive in close games.

Sima’s goal capped a spirited display from Lens, who had been forced to dig deep after being reduced to ten players.

The Senegalese international, still integrating into the squad, showcased composure and sharpness in a high-pressure moment, instantly endearing himself to the Lens supporters.

For the player, it was more than just a debut goal; it was a statement of intent.

After a period of inconsistency and loan spells in recent seasons, Sima appears determined to re-establish himself at the top level.

His contribution at Auxerre will be seen as a significant step in that direction, as well as a crucial boost for Lens’s early-season ambitions.

With his first goal now behind him, Sima will look to build on this momentum and cement his role as a decisive option in Franck Haise’s squad, while Lens continue their push for consistency in Ligue 1.