Lens
AuxerreLens and Auxerre meet on 22 August in the opening round of Ligue 1 season 2026/27 at Stade Bollaert-Delelis, kicking off at 18:15 Moscow time. Lens opened their campaign with an impressive 1–0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Super Cup, demonstrating resilience after playing over 50 minutes with ten men following Killian Antonie's red card. The home side's record shows they typically dominate possession and shots on target in domestic fixtures, winning eight of their last ten Ligue 1 home matches. However, defensive concerns loom: Antonie faces suspension, Baydu is injured, and Gradit has only recently returned to training, forcing Lens to reorganise their backline ahead of matchday one. Auxerre arrive under new manager Will Still following a full pre-season, but their away form remains modest—in nine of their last ten Ligue 1 away matches, they managed four or fewer shots on target with limited overall attacking output.
Form and Head-to-Head
Lens have won six of their last ten matches at home, drawing two and losing two, averaging 1.87 goals for and 0.89 against per game. Auxerre's away record shows five wins, three draws, and two losses over the same period, with 1.97 goals scored and 1.28 conceded on average. The visitors will face a Lens side that has proven capable of controlling matches and converting chances despite occasional defensive vulnerabilities.
Best Bet
Lens to win offers genuine value given their home advantage, superior squad depth, and proven ability to grind out results under pressure. Despite squad rotation concerns, the hosts remain clear favourites. Available at 1.57 on Melbet, 1.63 on 1xBet, 1.54 on 1Win, and 1.54 on Mostbet.
Odds to Watch
The draw is priced at 4.3 (Melbet), 4.47 (1xBet), 4.2 (1Win), and 4.33 (Mostbet). An Auxerre upset victory sits at 5.4 (Melbet and Mostbet) and 5.64 (1xBet), reflecting their underdog status despite arriving with fresh tactical ideas under their new manager.
