RC Lens holds charity match for journalist detained in Algeria
RC Lens played a charity match against FC Rouen on Saturday, dedicating the fixture to French journalist Christophe Gleizes, who has been detained in Algeria for 286 days. The Ligue 1 side, who currently sit second in the table, fielded a strong side including Florian Thauvin and saw off the National division side with a 2-1 victory at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.
The match was organized to raise awareness and funds for the release of Gleizes, a journalist and filmmaker who has been held in Algeria since August 2023. The proceeds from the match will be donated to Reporters Without Borders, an organization actively working for his release. Gleizes is known for his documentary work, including a notable film on street football in South Africa. The journalist's mother, Sylvie, and stepfather, Francis, were guests of honor at the match and were presented with a shirt by club legend Eric Sikora before giving the ceremonial kick-off.
On the pitch, the Ligue 1 side controlled much of the match. The deadlock was broken in the 56th minute when Wesley Said converted a penalty after a Rouen handball in the box. The lead was doubled just four minutes later, as Andrija Bulatovic curled a superb free-kick into the top corner to make it 2-0. The third-tier visitors, however, refused to capitulate. In the 77th minute, a slick team move was finished by Valentin Fuss, who converted from close range to set up a tense finale. Lens held on for a 2-1 victory in a game that was ultimately about more than the result.
The event was a powerful show of solidarity from the Lens community. Club officials, players, and over 30,000 supporters sent a message of support to Gleizes, who is widely respected for his work. The match served as a reminder of the ongoing situation and the importance of press freedom, with the club and its supporters using their platform to advocate for their colleague's safe return. The event concluded with Lens players and staff joining the crowd in a show of support for Gleizes, whose family was visibly moved by the tribute.
