RC Lens is preparing to host Lille OSC this Saturday evening in the highly anticipated Derby du Nord. Adrien Thomasson, the 31-year-old captain of Les Sang et Or, expressed confidence and determination ahead of the crucial encounter.
In a recent exclusive interview, Thomasson highlighted Lens` intention to fully utilize the electric atmosphere expected at their home ground, Bollaert stadium. He remarked, “It is a special match, even more so when we play at home.”
The French midfielder further elaborated on the significance of the rivalry: “With the supporters, we know that the atmosphere will be feverish, and as players, the rivalry with Lille exists, and we are dead set on beating them, for ourselves, for the club, and for the supporters. We are expecting a difficult match, and we hope that it will be difficult for them, too.”
Lille OSC has had a strong start to the season, remaining undefeated and winning three of their first four matches. Lens, on the other hand, has a record of two wins and two losses, with their defeats coming against formidable opponents like Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique Lyonnais. Thomasson stressed the psychological advantage of playing at home: “For us, Bollaert gives us extra strength. I often have friends who play for the opposing team, and they are always apprehensive about playing in Lens, about playing at the Bollaert. From a mental point of view, it is a bonus, and we try to play on that to win the maximum amount of matches.”
