In an exciting Coupe de France semifinal scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, Lens will take on Toulouse at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis. This match marks an essential clash for both teams as they vie for a spot in the final.
Match preview
Lens enters the match as the favorite following a vibrant quarterfinal victory against Lyon. Under the guidance of head coach Pierre Sage, they have developed a dynamic attacking style, prominently featuring Odsonne Edouard. However, injury concerns loom over the home side with Jonathan Gradit and Ruben Aguilar ruled out, while Samson Baidoo’s availability remains uncertain. Consequently, Lens has conceded goals in five consecutive matches, placing additional pressure on young defenders Ismaelo Ganiou and Nidal Celik. Fans are hopeful for the return of Allan Saint-Maximin, who is a doubt due to a calf injury.
Toulouse, known for their resilience in cup competitions, is coached by Carles Martinez Novell. They have made it to the semifinals on the strength of a disciplined and reactive playing style. Goalkeeper Guillaume Restes has been a standout, often making crucial saves to keep the Violets in the match. Toulouse also faces injury issues, with Franck Magri and Abou Francis sidelined. However, the forward pairing of Jesurun Russell-Rowe and Emersonn is in fine form and ready to exploit any gaps in the Lens defense.
From a tactical perspective, Pierre Sage is expected to employ a high-pressing style while maintaining possession, utilizing the width provided by Mathieu Udol and Saud Abdulhamid. On the other hand, Toulouse will likely organize defensively with three central defenders, aiming to close down space for Lens’s attack and capitalize on quick counter-attacks. The match could hinge on the ability of Lens’s young backline to cope with the pace and threat posed by Russell-Rowe during transitions.
Probable lineups
Lens: Risser – Baidoo, Ganiou, Sarr – Aguilar, Bulatovic, Thomasson, Udol – Thauvin, Said – Edouard
Toulouse: Restes – Cresswell, Koumbassa, Nicolaisen – Sidibe, Casseres, Sauer, Methalie – Russell-Rowe, Hidalgo – Emersonn
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the last five meetings: Lens have three wins, Toulouse one win, and there has been one draw
- Lens have won five of their last seven matches, conceding in six of them
- Toulouse have lost four of their last six matches, conceding 14 goals