RC Lens manager Pierre Sage has emphasized the significance of winning the Coupe de France, a trophy that remains elusive in the club’s history despite their Ligue 1 title in 1998. Lens will face Nice in the final at the Stade de France on Friday, presenting an opportunity to rectify this anomaly. Sage revealed he was made aware of the club’s lack of Coupe de France titles upon signing his contract, initially dismissing it as a lighthearted point but later recognizing the genuine desire for success among supporters and within the team.
According to L’Équipe, Sage stated that the club’s 120-year history deserves recognition, and this current generation of players is worthy of a trophy. He believes this season presents the ideal chance to achieve that, acknowledging the strong performance of his squad throughout the campaign. Lens finished second in Ligue 1, securing Champions League qualification and setting the stage for a potential double.
While Sage acknowledges the importance of winning trophies, he prioritizes leaving a lasting impact through the team’s style of play. He referenced iconic teams like Nantes, Guardiola’s Barcelona, and the 1984 French national team, emphasizing the importance of being remembered for more than just silverware. Sage hopes that Lens 2026 will be spoken about with the same reverence as Lens 1998, signifying a memorable era for the club.
Approximately 40,000 Lens supporters are expected to attend the final at the Stade de France, creating a significant atmosphere for the match. This will be a first meeting between rivals Lille and Lens in a Coupe de France final. The potential victory would not only deliver a trophy to the Lensois people but also solidify Sage’s early impact at the club, building on a successful season and setting a positive trajectory for the future. A Coupe de France win would cement this Lens team’s place in the club’s history and potentially inspire further success in the years to come.
