RC Lens is gearing up for one of the most anticipated matches of the season—the derby against their local rivals, LOSC. This critical clash is set for Sunday, March 30, 2025, during the 27th match day of Ligue 1, and players are expressing their eagerness and determination to secure a victory.
Adrien Thomasson, a key midfielder for the team, recently appeared on the "Stephen Brunch" show on RMC on March 23, 2025, where he candidly spoke about the team's mindset ahead of this derby. "We are already focused on this match. We’ve been waiting for this encounter since our loss in the first match (0-2). We lost two to zero in stoppage time, on a very questionable penalty. This break allows us to prepare physically. It will be a big match. We haven’t beaten LOSC in a while… I hope I’m not the black cat, because I have never known victory with Lens in this derby. So I want to win next Sunday," he stated, clearly showing the weight of expectation on his shoulders.
Thomasson’s remarks highlight not just the competitive nature of the derby but also the psychological preparation the team is undergoing following their disappointing first encounter against LOSC. "This derby is not just a regional challenge but also a turning point in the season; it's a must-win for us," he added, underlining the stakes involved as the season reaches its crucial final stretch.
Currently sitting in eighth place in the Ligue 1 standings, RC Lens believes a victory against LOSC could cut down their five-point deficit and potentially set them up for a strong finish in the season's last stretch. "We need to win this match for our supporters," Thomasson emphasized, indicating that fans’ support is not just appreciated but vital for team morale.
As the team prepares diligently during the recent league break, Thomasson mentioned, "During the break, we train hard because we know we have a big match to play at the return. I really feel like the team is committed to turning the tide after the last performance against the same team at Bollaert." This proactive approach underscores Lens' commitment to not only perform well but also to make their supporters proud.
Looking ahead, the match against LOSC is not merely a contest to catch up in the standings; it is an opportunity for redemption. The previous loss still stings for many players, especially for Thomasson, who hopes this encounter will finally end his personal streak of defeats in derbies since joining Lens. His poignant remark, "I hope I’m not the black cat, because since I joined Lens, I have never beaten Lille," encapsulates the longing for victory and the burden of previous failures.
This derby represents more than just three points in the table; it embodies pride, rivalry, and the unyielding spirit of the players and their fans. With the emotional stakes running high and the players well-prepared, all eyes will be on the Stade Pierre-Mauroy this Sunday. Will RC Lens rise to the occasion and deliver the much-desired victory, or will LOSC continue their dominance in this fierce local rivalry?
As the match approaches, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation. This encounter has significant implications not just for the current season's standings but also for the morale and confidence of the players moving forward. RC Lens knows a victory could be a watershed moment, making this match one of the highlights of Ligue 1's current campaign. They have the chance not just to claw back into contention for a higher place in the standings but to regain local bragging rights which have eluded them for too long.
In conclusion, as the teams ready themselves for this critical clash, the overarching narrative will be about rivalry, resilience, and the desire to win at all costs. For RC Lens, the hope is clear: it's not just about a game anymore; it’s about restoring pride and achieving a memorable landmark that could define the rest of their season.
