Mamadou Sangare scores but Lens held by Strasbourg as title hopes suffer another blow

RC Lens dropped more crucial points in the Ligue 1 title race after being held to a 1–1 draw away at RC Strasbourg Alsace in the opening match of Matchday 24.

The result marks Lens’ second consecutive setback, following their defeat to AS Monaco last round — a loss that saw them surrender top spot to Paris Saint-Germain.

The hosts took the lead in the 18th minute through Argentine forward Joaquín Panichelli to put Strasbourg ahead but Lens later found their equalizer in the 62nd minute. Malian midfielder Mamadou Sangaré rescued a point for his side, preventing what would have been a second consecutive defeat.

Just a chill guy, Mamadou Sangaré 🇲🇱😏 pic.twitter.com/ou2V7l5kit

— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) February 27, 2026

The draw compounds Lens’ recent struggles and further dents their momentum in the title race. After losing to Monaco last week — a defeat that cost them the league summit — this latest stumble opens the door even wider for PSG.

Paris Saint-Germain now have the opportunity to extend their lead at the top to four points if they defeat Le Havre AC in their Matchday 24 fixture.

Sangaré’s First Since AFCON Return

This was Sangaré’s first goal for Lens since returning from international duty with Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations, where the Eagles were eliminated in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Senegal national football team.

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