Metz Stun RC Lens with 1-0 Victory Despite Dominance
Metz Stun RC Lens with 1-0 Victory Despite Dominance
In a surprising turn of events in Ligue 1 on Saturday, Joel Asoro secured a 1-0 victory for Metz with a first-half goal, despite RC Lens dominating the match but failing to capitalize on their chances.
The home team, Lens, desperately seeking their first win of the season, began the game with immense intensity. They virtually camped in Metz's half, firing off 13 shots within the first 35 minutes of the match. However, Metz's goalkeeper, Alexandre Oukidja, proved to be a formidable barrier, making a series of remarkable saves to keep his team in contention.
The 37th minute witnessed a dramatic twist as Metz, against the run of play, managed to find the back of the net. New signing Joel Asoro extended a foot to redirect a cross into the goal, leaving Lens stunned.
Lens fans erupted in cheers in the 65th minute when Elye Wahi seemingly broke the deadlock, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside call.
Even in the dying moments of the game, Lens continued to press. Florian Sotoca unleashed a low shot that forced Oukidja to make his 10th save of the evening. However, Lens was left frustrated as they couldn't find the equalizer.
This unexpected loss leaves Lens, who finished as runners-up in Ligue 1 the previous season, second from the bottom in the league standings. In contrast, Metz's victory propels them to the sixth position with eight points from five games.