In a pre‑season friendly held at the Stade Bollaert‑Delelis on July 18, 2026, RC Lens cruised to a comfortable 4‑1 victory over local neighbours Boulogne. The match served as an important fitness test for Franck Haise's side ahead of the upcoming Ligue 1 campaign, with several first‑team regulars featuring prominently.

Match Overview

Lens started with a near‑full‑strength lineup, aiming to build sharpness and rhythm. Boulogne, from the Championnat National (third tier), showed early resistance but were overwhelmed by the superior technical quality of the home side. The scoreline reflected Lens's dominance, though Boulogne managed a consolation goal.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Lens opened the scoring when winger Florian Sotoca cut inside from the left and curled a precise shot into the far corner.
• 34th minute: A quick one‑two between midfielder Nampalys Mendy and striker Elye Wahi saw Wahi slot home from 10 yards to make it 2‑0.
• 50th minute: Boulogne pulled one back after a defensive mix‑up allowed forward Mathieu Guillaud to score from a tight angle.
• 67th minute: Lens restored their two‑goal cushion when a corner was headed in by centre‑back Jonathan Gradit.
• 82nd minute: Substitute Adam Buksa rounded off the scoring with a powerful header from a cross by Jimmy Cabot.

Tactical Story

Lens employed their usual high‑pressing 3‑4‑2‑1 system, suffocating Boulogne's attempts to build from the back. The visitors struggled to retain possession, often resorting to long balls. Lens's full‑backs—especially Przemysław Frankowski—provided width and created overloads. Boulogne's goal came from a rare Lens error, but overall the defensive structure was solid.

Standout Performers

Elye Wahi looked sharp, scoring one and assisting another. Florian Sotoca was a constant threat with his dribbling. For Boulogne, goalkeeper Maxime Carrière made several saves to keep the score respectable.

Conclusion

This friendly victory builds momentum for Lens as they prepare for their Ligue 1 opener. The fitness levels appeared high, and the attacking fluidity bodes well. Boulogne, meanwhile, will take heart from their spirited performance against top‑tier opposition.