**Lille Triumphs Over Lens with Bentaleb's Late Stoppage-Time Goal, Securing Season's First Win**
In a thrilling encounter, Lille emerged victorious over Lens in a highly anticipated match, securing their first win of the season. The game, which was a rollercoaster of emotions, ended in a 1-0 scoreline, with the decisive goal coming in the final minutes of stoppage time.
The match got off to a tentative start, with both teams feeling each other out. Lille, known for their attacking flair, dominated possession early on but struggled to break down a resilient Lens defense. Lens, despite their defensive strengths, appeared vulnerable in the final third, presenting Lille with several chances to take the lead.
The turning point came in the 90th minute when the game was on the verge of ending in a draw. A perfectly timed run by Lille's midfielder, Jonathan Bamba, saw him receive a pinpoint cross from Bentaleb. With the clock ticking, Bentaleb coolly fired a low shot past Lens goalkeeper, Brice Sylvestre, who could have done better with his save.
The goal sent the Lille faithful into raptures, while Lens fans were left to ponder what could have been. Despite controlling the game for long stretches, Lille had missed several opportunities to convert their chances into goals. However, their persistence paid off in the end, and the victory gave them a much-needed boost in confidence.
For Lens, the result was a bitter pill to swallow, especially given their strong defensive performance throughout the match. The team will take solace in their ability to hold out against a strong opponent and look to build on this display as they prepare for their next fixture.
In summary, Lille's late winner secured a hard-fought victory, while Lens will reflect on what might have been. The match highlighted the contrasting styles of both teams, with Lille's attacking intent ultimately proving decisive. This win could be a turning point for Lille as they aim to climb the table and challenge for a top-half finish this season.