Le Havre Women and Lens Women produced an entertaining friendly on 12 August 2026, with Lens edging a seven-goal thriller 3-2 away from home. The match served as an important part of both teams' preseason preparations, offering plenty of attacking football and a test of defensive resilience.

Match overview

In a fixture arranged to build match fitness before the new season, the two French women's sides played with remarkable intensity from the first minute. Le Havre Women tried to control possession through their midfield, while Lens Women looked dangerous on the counter-attack and from set pieces.

The scoring started early, and the lead changed hands on multiple occasions as both teams pushed forward without hesitation. Lens eventually proved the stronger finishers, holding on to their one-goal advantage through the closing stages.

Key moments

• Fast start: Lens opened the scoring inside the opening exchanges, setting the tone for an open contest.
• Le Havre response: The hosts equalised quickly, showcasing their ability to strike back under pressure.
• Back-and-forth duel: Both sides exchanged spells of dominance, with each goal met by an immediate push from the other team.
• Winning goal: Lens struck a third time late in the match, securing the win in a lively preseason encounter.

Tactical story

Le Havre Women favoured a possession-based approach, building patiently from the back and looking for combinations between the lines. Lens Women were more direct, using speed out wide to exploit space behind the full-backs. The tactical contrast made for an absorbing contest that provided both coaching staffs with plenty to analyse.

Preseason significance

International club friendlies like this one are crucial for teams seeking to refine their style and test newer players in match situations. Lens Women will take confidence from the result and the attacking output, while Le Havre Women can focus on tightening up defensively before the competitive season begins.