Nantes' struggles continue in lethargic Lens draw

Lens entered the contest as one of three Ligue 1 teams yet to lose this season, but rather than dominating the early stages, complacency in the defensive third allowed Nantes to threaten Brice Samba’s goal on a number of occasions. Mostafa Mohamed was presented with the game’s first opportunity, but he was unable to keep his attempt on target. Pedro Chirivella then forced Samba to palm his deflected effort around the post before the Spaniard curled another strike wide only moments later.

Following a sluggish start, the visitors grew into the contest as the first half progressed, but despite moving the ball with pace and accuracy, their attacking play was failing to translate into clear-cut chances. After beginning the encounter on the back foot, Lens looked to be more proactive in the second half, with Przemysław Frankowski going close with an ambitious long-range effort after catching Alban Lafont out of position.

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In truth, opportunities were becoming rarer as the encounter progressed with the two sturdy defences continuing to prosper, although an off-balance Ludovic Blas did his utmost to give Nantes the lead with a volleyed effort that was smartly stopped by Samba. The two sides both experienced half chances in the final 20 minutes, but a combination of resolute defending and woeful finishing ensured the encounter finished goalless.

The draw will frustrate both teams as Lens miss the opportunity to end a 21-year wait for a topflight away victory over Nantes, while the hosts are just one point clear of the relegation zone after winning one league game this season.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Jimmy Cabot (RC Lens)