**Lens Narrowly Lose to Nantes, Openda's Winner Keeps Them in Ligue 1 Top Four**
**Lens Suffer Narrow Defeat in Ligue 1 Clash with Nantes**
In a closely contested Ligue 1 match at Stade Pierre-Aliotti, Lens narrowly lost to Nantes, ending their two-match winning streak. The game was a tense affair, with both teams creating chances, but Nantes managed to secure a 1-0 victory thanks to a late goal from Openda.
**Openda Strikes Late to Secure Victory**
The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when Openda, who had been a constant threat, coolly slotted home from inside the box. This goal proved to be the difference, as Lens couldn't find an equalizer despite pressing hard in the closing stages. Openda's clinical finish ensured Nantes took all three points.
**Lens' Ligue 1 Top-Four Hopes Remain Intact**
Despite the loss, Lens' quest to secure a top-four finish in Ligue 1 remains alive. Currently, they sit fifth, trailing fourth-placed Rennes by two points. With three games remaining, including a crucial encounter against Reims, Lens will need to maximize their points to overhaul Rennes and secure direct qualification for the Europa Conference League.
**Nantes Edge Closer to European Qualification**
Nantes, on the other hand, have now moved up to seventh place and are in a strong position to secure European qualification. With a recent win streak, they are building momentum and could yet challenge for a top-half finish, which would be their first since 2018.
**Conclusion**
The match between Lens and Nantes was a hard-fought encounter, with Openda's late goal proving the difference-maker. While Lens' top-four hopes hang in the balance, Nantes are gaining momentum in their push for European football. Both teams have crucial games ahead, with the next set of matches set to determine their final standings in Ligue 1.