# Ligue 1 Round 35: Lens Secure Champions League Qualification with 3-1 Win Over Lille

**Lens Seal Champions League Spot with Thrilling Victory Over Lille**

In a thrilling encounter at Stade de France, Lens secured their place in the Champions League with a dominant 3-1 victory over Lille in Ligue 1 Round 35. The result cements their position at the top of the table and ensures they will finish in the top two, thus qualifying for Europe’s premier competition.

**Early Goal Sets the Tone**

Lens started strong and took the lead just 15 minutes into the match when Jonathan Claude headed in a cross from the right flank. The early goal gave the visitors a commanding advantage, and they dominated possession early on. Lille, despite their best efforts, struggled to create clear chances in the first half.

**Penalty Decisions and Second-Half Momentum**

The game changed in the second half when both teams were involved in a series of penalty decisions. First, Lens were awarded a spot-kick after a foul in the box, and their young star Ismaila Sarr converted the penalty to extend their lead to 2-0.

However, Lille refused to back down and pulled one back through a well-taken goal by Jonathan David, who capitalized on a defensive error. Despite the goal, Lens remained in control and showed their mettle by responding immediately. Sarr scored again with a clinical finish, this time from inside the box, to make it 3-1.

**Manager’s Reaction and Key Players**

After the match, Lens boss Franck Hounou expressed his relief at securing Champions League qualification. “We’ve worked so hard for this,” he said. “The boys deserve this moment. We’ll enjoy it, but our focus is now on finishing the season strongly.”

Forwards like Ismaila Sarr and Jonathan Claude were instrumental in the victory, while the defensive unit also played a crucial role in keeping Lille at bay.

**What Does This Win Mean for Lens?**

This victory not only guarantees Lens a place in the Champions League but also solidifies their position at the top of Ligue 1. With two games remaining, they are unlikely to be caught by any team, including Lille, who now face a battle to avoid a mid-table finish.

**Lille’s Disappointment**

Lille, who were aiming to leapfrog Lens into the Champions League spots, will be left to rue missed opportunities. Their inability to capitalize on their penalty decisions and defensive lapses proved costly.

**Final Thoughts**

Lens’ 3-1 win over Lille is a statement victory that cements their status as one of the continent’s rising forces in football. With a Champions League spot secured, the future looks bright for this passionate group of players and their passionate fans.

**Standings Update**

With this result, Lens have moved to the summit of Ligue 1, while Lille drop down to third. The race for second place remains intense, with both Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain still in the hunt.

This was a memorable day for Lens, and fans across Europe will be eagerly watching their next Champions League adventure.