# Lens Beat Nantes Narrowly 2-1, Openda Scores Winner to Maintain Top Four Position

Lens secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nantes in a thrilling Ligue 1 encounter, with Openda emerging as the hero with a late winner to keep his side in the top four.

The match was a tense affair from the start, with both teams probing for weaknesses. Lens took the lead in the 15th minute through a well-crafted move, with Openda capitalizing on a defensive error to slot home. Nantes responded swiftly, showing their attacking prowess as Gaëtan Laborde leveled the score just nine minutes later with a powerful strike from outside the box.

Despite the early goal, Lens displayed remarkable resilience, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. The visitors, however, refused to back down, and Openda once again proved decisive in the 86th minute, driving forward with pace to slot a stunning winner past a helpless Alban Lafont.

Both teams showcased their quality, but Lens' ability to defend set-pieces and exploit Nantes' vulnerabilities was the difference. Nantes, while creating chances, struggled to break down a solid Lens defense, particularly after the interval.

This victory extends Lens' unbeaten run and solidifies their position in the top four, with Openda's goal proving pivotal. Lens now sit fifth, two points behind Marseille, but with a crucial match against Rennes next weekend.

For Nantes, the search for consistency continues, as they remain eighth despite a battling performance. Lens' victory highlights their growing confidence under manager Franck Hantz, while Nantes will need to regroup ahead of a tough encounter against Montpellier.

In a match that had it all—tension, drama, and crucial moments—it was Openda's late heroics that stole the spotlight, ensuring Lens maintained their top-four status.