Lens vs Paris

The match between RC Lens and Paris FC is set to take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis in Lens. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 local time, and a full house is expected as the home supporters look to push their team toward another positive result. This Ligue 1 fixture carries importance for both sides — Lens aiming to stay within reach of the European qualification spots, while Paris FC continue their fight to climb away from the lower half of the table.

Lens enter the game with a few absentees that could influence their setup. Deiver Machado remains out due to a knee injury, and Pierre Ganiou is suspended following a red card in their previous outing. Odsonne Édouard is a doubt with a hamstring concern, while Florian Sotoca, Abdallah Sima, Wesley Saïd, and Rayan Fofana are expected to be available from the bench. Paris FC will also be without Pierre-Yves Hamel, who continues his recovery from a groin injury. Manager Stéphane Gilli still has solid options in reserve, including Vincent Marchetti, Alimami Gory, and Nouha Dicko.

Pierre Sage, in charge of Lens, is expected to maintain his preferred 3-5-2 formation, relying on wide wing-backs to stretch the play and support transitions. Lens have been effective in pressing high and recovering possession quickly, often using set-pieces as a key offensive weapon. In contrast, Paris FC under Gilli are anticipated to line up in a more conservative 4-2-3-1 shape, focusing on structured defending and quick counter-attacks led by their pacey wingers. The visiting side’s main objective will be to absorb pressure and take advantage of open spaces left behind the Lens defense.

In the French press ahead of the match, Lens have been praised for their recent form, particularly their 2-1 away win at Auxerre, which highlighted their resilience and tactical discipline. Commentators have described Paris FC as an unpredictable side — capable of sharp attacking transitions but often lacking defensive consistency. The general tone across media previews suggests that Lens, playing at home, are slight favourites but that Paris FC have the tools to surprise if they maintain focus and efficiency in front of goal.

Studio analysts have echoed similar views, pointing to Lens’ home advantage as a major factor. However, they note that the absence of key players in defence could expose vulnerabilities, especially against quick countering teams like Paris FC. Analysts agree that the game could hinge on who controls the midfield battle, with Lens seeking to dictate tempo and Paris aiming to frustrate and counter. Overall, the pre-match mood is one of cautious optimism for the hosts and quiet determination from the visitors, with both sides aware that small tactical details could decide the outcome.

Watch and Download Nice to Lyon full match replay and highlights, At Saturday, October 18, 2025. The match played at Allianz Riviera, in Ligue 1, France.