Ten-man Lens shock Paris Saint-Germain to lift 2026 French Champions Trophy

Lens stunned European champions Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Sunday to win the 2026 French Champions Trophy, despite playing with 10 men for more than half the match.

Florian Thauvin scored the decisive goal in the 32nd minute, finishing from inside the penalty area after appearing at the far post to give the home side a surprise lead.

Lens then faced a major setback when Kylian Antonio was shown a straight red card in the 39th minute for a reckless challenge on Maghnes Akliouche. However, the hosts defended their advantage with resilience and held on to claim the trophy against a Paris Saint-Germain side that had only recently been crowned European champions.

Paris Saint-Germain had entered the game with the chance to add another honour to their collection before the start of the Ligue 1 campaign. The Paris side had won the UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa only a few days earlier.

The match was watched from the stands by Zinedine Zidane, the newly appointed manager of the France national team.

Paris Saint-Germain started strongly and created several early opportunities. Lens goalkeeper Risser and the home defence stood firm against attempts involving Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doue and Akliouche, before Lens made the most of a counter-attack to take the lead.

Thauvin’s finish changed the balance of the contest, but Lens were forced to spend the closing stages of the first half under sustained pressure after Antonio’s dismissal. Despite their numerical disadvantage, they reached half-time in front.

Doue came close to equalising in added time when his effort struck the crossbar, leaving Paris Saint-Germain frustrated as Lens protected their narrow advantage.

Luis Enrique responded at the start of the second half by increasing his attacking options. Nuno Mendes, Fabian Ruiz and Ousmane Dembele were among the players introduced as Paris Saint-Germain sought to exploit their numerical superiority.

The visitors continued to dominate possession and create chances, but Lens produced a determined defensive display. Risser made several important saves, while Dembele missed a valuable opportunity to level the score.

Paris Saint-Germain appeared to have found an equaliser through Ruiz, but the goal was ruled out for offside. That decision extended Lens’ reprieve and increased the pressure on the European champions to find a way through.

The contest became more even in the closing stages when Nuno Mendes was also sent off, leaving both teams with 10 players. Lens remained organised and focused until the final whistle, securing a dramatic victory and the 2026 French Champions Trophy.