Lens stun PSG to win Super Cup

Lens produced a stunning upset against Paris Saint-Germain to win the 2026 Super Cup, claiming a memorable 1-0 victory in front of their home supporters at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.

Florian Thauvin scored the only goal of the match in the 32nd minute, finishing from close range after a dangerous cross from Matthieu Udol. Lens then survived more than 50 minutes with 10 men after Kyllian Antonio was shown a straight red card in the first half.

PSG dominated possession after the dismissal but could not find a way through a disciplined Lens defence. Their hopes of forcing a late comeback were further damaged when Nuno Mendes was sent off in the 86th minute.

The victory gives Lens a major early-season boost, while PSG are left to reflect on a frustrating performance in which they struggled to turn their possession into clear-cut chances.

Thauvin gives Lens the perfect start

Lens began the match with intensity and immediately looked to put PSG under pressure. Their aggressive approach eventually paid off in the 32nd minute.

Matthieu Udol delivered a precise low cross across the PSG penalty area, finding Thauvin in space at the far post. The experienced forward made no mistake, guiding his finish into the net to give Lens the lead.

The goal capped an impressive opening spell from the hosts and gave PSG a difficult task against a side determined to defend their advantage. PSG attempted to respond through Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, but Lens remained the more threatening team for much of the opening period.

Lens reduced to 10 men

The game changed dramatically in the 39th minute when Lens defender Kyllian Antonio was shown a straight red card following a late challenge on Maghnes Akliouche.

The dismissal left Lens facing a long period of defending with a numerical disadvantage. The decision also sparked strong reactions from the Lens bench, with the club's technical staff unhappy with the referee's handling of the incident.

Despite being reduced to 10 players, Lens quickly reorganised their defensive structure. Coach Dino Toppmöller responded by bringing on Ruben Aguilar for striker Filip Ivanovic at halftime, prioritising defensive stability as PSG prepared to increase the pressure.

PSG dominate but fail to find an equaliser

PSG controlled much of the second half as Lens dropped deeper to protect their narrow advantage. However, Luis Enrique's side struggled to break down the compact Lens defence.

Doué came close to levelling the match when his powerful effort struck the crossbar. Ousmane Dembélé also missed a major opportunity, sending a volley over the target when he had a chance to punish Lens.

The longer the game continued, the more impressive Lens' defensive resilience became. Goalkeeper Walid Risser also played a crucial role, producing important saves to deny PSG attackers including Kvaratskhelia and Doué.

Nuno Mendes sent off late on

PSG's hopes of rescuing the match suffered another major blow in the 86th minute. Nuno Mendes was shown a red card for elbowing Michal Skoras, leaving both teams with 10 players for the closing stages.

The dismissal effectively ended PSG's hopes of mounting a sustained late comeback. Lens held their shape during the remaining minutes and eventually secured one of the most impressive victories of their recent history.

Lens complete memorable Super Cup win

The final whistle triggered celebrations inside the Stade Bollaert-Delelis as Lens completed a remarkable 1-0 victory. The result was particularly impressive considering the hosts played the majority of the second half with only 10 men.

For PSG, the defeat raises early questions about their attacking efficiency. Despite enjoying significant possession and creating several opportunities, they were unable to overcome Lens' defensive organisation. Lens, meanwhile, can take enormous confidence from the performance as they begin their domestic campaign with a major trophy already secured.

The victory provides Lens with an early statement of intent and a significant confidence boost heading into the new season. Their ability to withstand PSG's pressure after Antonio's dismissal will be one of the biggest positives for Toppmöller.

For PSG, the defeat highlights the importance of becoming more clinical in front of goal. Enrique's team created opportunities but lacked the finishing required to turn their dominance into a result.

The late dismissal of Mendes also added to a frustrating evening for the French champions.

Lens vs PSG: Key Match Facts

• Result: Lens 1-0 Paris Saint-Germain
• Competition: 2026 Super Cup
• Venue: Stade Bollaert-Delelis
• Winner: Lens
• Goal: Florian Thauvin, 32nd minute
• Lens red card: Kyllian Antonio, 39th minute
• PSG red card: Nuno Mendes, 86th minute
• Man of the moment: Florian Thauvin
• Key Lens goalkeeper: Walid Risser

SportsLigue