A Stunning Tifo An Unusual One A Time of Mourning and an Emotional Player Your Catch-Up Before Lens vs Nice
Former RC Lens striker Cristian Lopez has announced his retirement at the age of 36 after struggling with an ankle injury for two years. Lopez played for RC Lens from 2016 to 2018, leaving behind fond memories in the club’s history. He remains connected to the team, often sharing photos in their iconic red and gold jersey on social media. In response to his retirement, RC Lens extended their best wishes, saying, “todo lo mejor para el futuro” (all the best for the future).
A Time of Mourning for RC Lens Family
This past Sunday, RC Lens expressed their condolences to former left-back Issiaga Sylla, who experienced the tragic loss of his wife, Doussou Keïta. Sylla, who played for Lens during the 2020-2021 season, is currently with Asteras Tripolis in Greece.
A Stunning Tifo Display
Supporters marked the special occasion of Sainte-Barbe on Saturday by showcasing a stunning tifo during the Nantes vs. Lens match at the Beaujoire. This display celebrated the club’s mining roots and featured a miner’s helmet, a red scarf, and the Lens city crest. While the tifo was impressive, some joked about the impracticality of sunglasses at the bottom of the visiting supporters’ stand.
Upcoming Matches and Events
The Sainte-Barbe match, held ten days after December 4, coincides with the feast dedicated to the patron saint of miners. Lens opted for their home match closest to this date. Here’s a look at upcoming fixtures:
- Lens vs. Feignies-Aulnoye (Coupe de France), December 19 at 21:00
- Toulouse vs. Lens, January 2 at 20:45
- Lens vs. Auxerre, January 17 at 17:00
Community and Culture
Matthieu Udol, a defender from RC Lens, expressed his pride in participating in a photo session for the Sainte-Barbe jersey at the Lewarde mining historical center. His feelings echo a broader connection to the local mining heritage and the club’s deep-rooted traditions.
Community Engagement
The regional council convened, where Samia Gaci reminded vice-president Antoine Sillani of his promise to applaud RC Lens while wearing their colors. Despite being a supporter of a rival team, Sillani displayed a small homemade tifo, showcasing the rivalry’s friendly spirit.
Publications and Legacy
The latest edition of the magazine “Sang & Or,” dedicated to the club’s heritage, has recently been released. This semestrial publication includes an interview with Seydou Keïta, discussions on players’ mental health, and more. With 120 richly illustrated pages, it retails for €14.90, making it a perfect Christmas gift for fans.
As RC Lens continues to foster a strong sense of community, it remains dedicated to honoring both its past and future, with players, fans, and partners coming together in celebration and support.
