Lens Score Twice Late To Stun Slavia Prague

Lens produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the opening Champions League matchday, scoring twice in stoppage time to defeat Slavia Prague 3–2 and complete a remarkable late comeback. Slavia appeared to have done enough to secure the points after taking control of the contest and carrying their advantage deep into the closing stages. Lens continued pushing forward, however, refusing to accept defeat even as the match moved beyond the 90-minute mark. The entire complexion of the game changed in stoppage time. Lens found an equaliser and, rather than settling for a draw, immediately continued attacking in search of a winner. Their pressure paid off with another late goal, completing a stunning turnaround and leaving Slavia with virtually no time to respond. The victory gives Lens a hugely valuable three points at the start of the Champions League league phase and provides an immediate boost to their qualification hopes. In a format where every result contributes to one overall standings table, turning a likely defeat into victory could prove extremely important later in the competition. For Slavia Prague, the defeat will be especially painful. They were only minutes away from an opening victory before the match completely slipped away in stoppage time. For Lens, it was the perfect reminder of football’s unpredictability: two stoppage-time goals, a 3–2 comeback victory and an unforgettable European night.