Paris Saint-Germain and Lens faced off this Wednesday at the Stade Bollaert in a rescheduled match from Matchday 29 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season. The match ended in a 2-0 victory for PSG. After the game, Lens coach Pierre Sage spoke to beIN SPORTS.
Sage: “We were focused on playing a good match so everyone could have a great evening.”
What are your feelings?
A bit like at halftime, mixed feelings. We know we played well, but without the reward at the end. The players deserved at least a point.
Did you run into a brick wall in front of the goalkeeper?
Yes, the goalkeeper had an extraordinary game, and our attackers weren’t clinical tonight. We created a lot of chances, we managed to stop them from playing, but we struggled when they had possession. The second goal was tough because I don’t think it reflected the game. But it’s true that there’s a lot of quality in their team. Our goal was to play a good match so everyone could have a great evening, and that’s what we did.
Sage: “This match gives us hope.”
What are your words at the end of the match when you’re with your players?
I simply tell them that they need to put the match behind them because we have a commitment to a partner who is leaving us. We have to do things right even when we’re disappointed. We also have to remember that these are people with whom we’ve shared joys and good times. And especially with whom we will continue to share. This was their last match here at Bollaert tonight. It was important for them and for their families.
Ready for the final?
Yes, this match gives us hope. We saw the players; it motivates them every day. It’s true that when we practice, we have a bit more confidence than when we’re being outplayed by the opponent, which wasn’t the case tonight.
Sage : “This should prepare us for Europe.”
More clarity, especially next year with the Champions League?
That’s exactly it. PSG had two and a half chances and scored two goals. We had plenty of opportunities, but I prefer to create lots of chances and sort out our finishing problems rather than chasing the ball for an hour and a half. This should prepare us for Europe next year, but we already have some interesting things to manage between now and the end of the season.
