Lyon, France – RC Lens overcame a late equalizer and ultimately prevailed over Olympique Lyonnais in a dramatic Coupe de France quarterfinal decided by a penalty shootout on Thursday. The match, played at the Groupama Stadium, ended 2-2 after extra time, with Lens securing a 5-4 victory in the shootout and a place in the semifinals where they will face Toulouse.
The encounter was a rollercoaster of emotions for both sets of supporters, with Rémi Humbert’s stoppage-time goal for Lyon forcing the match to penalties after Lens had appeared poised for victory. However, it was Les Sang et Or who held their nerve from the spot, converting all five of their kicks to book their spot in the final four.
Dramatic Finish at Groupama Stadium
The match began with a goal from Lens’ Florian Thauvin in the 23rd minute, giving the visitors an early lead. However, Lyon responded before halftime with a goal from Adam Sima in the 46th minute, leveling the score. The second half saw further drama, with Yaremchuk putting Lyon ahead in the 67th minute, only for Humbert to equalize in the 94th minute, sending the game into extra time.
The tension was palpable as the match progressed, and the sending off of Lens’ Adam Masuaku in the 64th minute added another layer of complexity. Despite being a man down, Lens managed to hold on and force the penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout Decides the Tie
The penalty shootout proved to be a nerve-wracking affair. Florian Thauvin calmly converted for Lens, followed by Endrick for Lyon. Mamadou Sangaré then extended Lens’ advantage, while Moussa Niakhaté’s attempt was saved by Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser. Matthieu Udol restored Lens’ two-goal lead, and Tyler Morton matched it for Lyon. Saud Abdulhamid continued Lens’ perfect record, and Corentin Tolisso kept Lyon in the hunt. Rayan Fofana then scored for Lens, and Adam Karabec converted to seal the victory for Les Sang et Or.
The shootout saw a series of composed finishes and a crucial save from Risser, ultimately proving the difference between the two sides. Lens demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure, converting all five of their penalties to secure their passage to the next round.
Lens to Face Toulouse in the Semifinals
Lens’ victory sets up an intriguing semifinal clash against Toulouse. The match promises to be another exciting encounter as Lens look to continue their impressive run in the Coupe de France. Toulouse advanced to the semifinals after their own quarterfinal victory. The date and venue for the semifinal match are yet to be confirmed.
This win represents a significant achievement for Lens, who will be eager to build on this momentum as they continue their pursuit of Coupe de France glory. For Lyon, it’s a disappointing end to their cup campaign, but they can focus on their Ligue 1 ambitions.
Key Stats from the Match
- Final Score: Lyon 2 (4) – Lens 2 (5) (after penalties)
- Goals: Yaremchuk (67’), Humbert (90+4’) – Thauvin (23’), Sima (46’)
- Red Card: Adam Masuaku (Lens, 64’)
- Penalty Shootout: Lens – 5/5, Lyon – 4/5
The Coupe de France continues to deliver thrilling moments, and this quarterfinal clash between Lyon and Lens was no exception. Lens’ resilience and composure in the face of adversity ultimately proved to be the deciding factors, securing their place in the semifinals and setting up a mouthwatering encounter against Toulouse.
Next up for Lens is a confirmed Ligue 1 fixture against Clermont Foot on March 15th, 2026. Fans will be looking to see if they can carry this cup form into their league campaign.
