RC Lens Dominates Toulouse 4-1 to Reach 2026 Coupe de France Final

RC Lens secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Toulouse in the Coupe de France semi-final held on April 21 at Stade Bollaert, propelling the team to their first final since 1998. The victory sets the stage for Lens to compete for their first-ever Coupe de France trophy in the final scheduled for May 22 at the Stade de France, where they will face the winner of the Strasbourg vs. Nice semi-final.

Lens opened the scoring early with a penalty by Florian Thauvin in the 9th minute, awarded after a foul on Thauvin by Toulouse’s Diop. Thauvin was instrumental throughout the game, assisting the second goal scored by Allan Saint-Maximin in the 19th minute. Matthieu Udol added a third goal at the 34th minute, establishing Lens's dominance. Toulouse managed a consolation goal by Santiago Hidalgo just after Saint-Maximin’s goal, but Lens maintained control. Adrien Thomasson sealed the victory with a fourth goal in the 74th minute after a rebound from a free-kick.

Coach Pierre Sage praised his team’s tactical prowess and consistent performance during the match. The atmosphere was electric as thousands of Lens supporters celebrated wildly inside Stade Bollaert, storming the pitch at the final whistle in a jubilant display of passion and support. The jubilant crowd made it difficult for players to return to the locker room, with some playful interactions between fans and defenders, including Arthur Masuaku.

This triumph marks a significant milestone for Lens, aiming to secure their first national cup title since the club’s foundation. The entire region shares high hopes as Lens prepares to face their upcoming opponent for the coveted Coupe de France trophy.