In a thrilling encounter on April 11, 2025, Stade de Reims secured a vital 2-0 victory against RC Lens in the 29th round of Ligue 1, propelled by an outstanding performance from Keito Nakamura. The 24-year-old forward not only scored both goals for his team but also made history by becoming the first Japanese player to achieve double-digit goals in a single Ligue 1 season.
The match took place at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, where Reims faced off against a formidable Lens side that was sitting comfortably in the mid-table. With both teams aiming for crucial points, the stakes were high, especially for Reims, who were fighting to escape the relegation zone.
Reims came into the match needing a win after slipping to 16th place following their previous defeat. Coach Will Still opted for a five-man defense due to several absences in the backline, a tactical shift that proved effective. Daiki Tsuneta was deployed in a central role, while Junya Ito and Nakamura took positions on the flanks, looking to exploit any gaps in the Lens defense.
The first half saw both teams exchanging chances, but it was Nakamura who broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute. A low cross from Sergio Akieme found Nakamura in the box, and he expertly directed the ball into the net with his right foot, sending the Reims fans into a frenzy. This goal marked his 10th of the season in Ligue 1, surpassing the previous record for Japanese players set by Takumi Minamino with nine goals.
As the match progressed, Lens ramped up their pressure, attempting to equalize. However, Reims goalkeeper Yevann Diouf was in fine form, making several crucial saves that kept his team in the lead. The second half saw RC Lens dominate possession, launching over 30 attempts on goal, but Diouf's heroics and the resolute defense of Reims held firm.
Despite being pinned back for large parts of the second half, Reims managed to launch a counterattack in the 88th minute that sealed the game. Nakamura, showing remarkable pace, sprinted into the box and received a pass from Noah Jean Holm. With a deft touch, he slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, scoring his 11th goal of the season and confirming the victory for Reims.
After scoring, Nakamura was visibly exhausted and was substituted shortly after, having played a pivotal role in the match. His two goals not only helped his team secure three vital points but also elevated them to provisional 14th place in the standings, providing a much-needed boost in confidence as they fight to avoid relegation.
Junya Ito also made headlines as this match marked his 100th official appearance for Stade de Reims. His contributions on the wing were instrumental in creating opportunities, including a notable pass that led to an earlier chance for Reims.
The win was a significant relief for Reims, who had been struggling in the league. Coach Will Still expressed his pride in the team’s performance, particularly praising Nakamura's record-setting achievement. “Keito has been phenomenal for us this season. His ability to find the back of the net consistently is crucial as we navigate this tough period,” he commented after the match.
With this victory, Stade de Reims has reignited their hopes of staying in Ligue 1, and the performances of players like Nakamura and Ito will be vital as they move forward. The team will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures, aiming to solidify their position in the league and avoid the threat of relegation.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Nakamura, who has not only emerged as a key player for Reims but also as a trailblazer for Japanese football in Europe. His historic achievements in Ligue 1 are sure to inspire many young players back home in Japan.
In conclusion, Stade de Reims’ 2-0 triumph over RC Lens showcased the team's resilience and determination to fight for their place in Ligue 1. With Keito Nakamura leading the charge, they have every reason to believe that they can continue to secure points and climb the table as the season unfolds.
