Belgian Lois Openda confidently netted one and proceeded to set up another as Lens, losing only once in Ligue 1 this season, masterfully closed the gap on PSG at the top to four points after 17 rounds.
Paris Saint-Germain, in the absences of World Cup winner Lionel Messi and Neymar, lost for the first time in any competition since March 20 last year when they were vanquished 3-1 at Lens on Sunday.
“Lens deserved their win,” said PSG coach Christophe Galtier.
Openda was a joy to watch as he scored one and set up another to help Lens close the gap on PSG at the top to four points.
“We are happy to be four points behind,” said Lens coach Franck Haise. “This victory proves that we can beat anyone in this championship.”
In comparison PSG’s last loss was more than nine months ago losing 3-0 at Monaco in Ligue 1, which still left them 12 points clear at the top of the table.
Although not intended to be an excuse of any sort, on Sunday at Lens PSG were without Messi and the suspended Neymar although Qatar Golden Boot winner Kylian Mbappe was given a rousing welcome from the Lens fans as he warmed up.
Galtier expressed his hope that French fans would give Messi a similar reception when he returns on January 3rd.
“He’s going to join us on January 3, in 48 hours,” said Galtier. “I hope Leo will be well received. He won the most beautiful trophy by being very good. We know he’s a great and decisive player so we hope he’ll be well received obviously.”
“Kylian worked had,” said Galtier. “He showed a very good attitude.”
“Leo and ‘Ney’ were not there but that is no excuse.”
Lens had surged into the lead after five minutes when PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma blocked an effort from Massadio Haidara to Przemyslaw Frankowski who scored.
Hugo Ekitike responded affirmatively minutes later, causing Brice Samba to dive to gather a cross and drive the ball through the Lens goalkeeper’s grasp.