Lens found their late spark under the floodlights, turning a difficult evening against Paris FC into a 2-1 victory thanks to Thorgan Hazard’s 83rd-minute volley.
The comeback was Lens’s third consecutive Ligue 1 win and moved Yannick Cahuzac’s side to within one point of a remarkably crowded summit. Lyon, Paris Saint-Germain, Lille, Paris FC and Monaco are all level on 14 points, with Lens now just behind them.
Paris FC strike before the interval
Paris FC had taken the lead shortly before half-time when Koleosho unleashed a powerful effort to beat the Lens goalkeeper.
The visitors also had a major moment in the second half when Todibo was initially shown a red card for a heavy challenge on Kebbal. Video review changed the decision, however, as the Paris FC player had been offside in the build-up.
Thauvin marks milestone with goal and assist
Lens responded through Florian Thauvin, who was making his 300th Ligue 1 appearance. In the 63rd minute, he drove a finish from the edge of the penalty area to bring the home side level.
Thauvin then created the decisive goal 20 minutes later. His delivery found Hazard, who struck a volley to complete the turnaround and secure three more valuable points for Lens.
For Paris FC, the defeat leaves them among the five clubs sharing first place on 14 points, but with Lens now pressing hard from a point behind after another late statement of intent.
