Back at Bollaert-Delelis to continue their pre-season preparation, the Blood and Gold face the reigning Bundesliga champion, Bayer 04 Leverkusen. For his first steps in the Artois lair under the Lens colours, coach Will Still calls on French international Brice Samba, recently returned from international duty, in goal. In defence, Jonathan Gradit, Kevin Danso and Facundo Medina start the match as they did against FC Utrecht. In the absence of Andy Diouf, Nampalys Mendy leads the midfield alongside Adrien Thomasson. Attackers Florian Sotoca, Angelo Fulgini and Wesley Saïd take charge of the attack.
The Blood and Gold were caught cold in the 4th minute of play. Despite a save from Jhoanner Chávez on the goal line, Bayer 04 Leverkusen opened the scoring through Martin Terrier (0-1). Racing tried to react. Found by Florian Sotoca’s cross, Angelo Fulgini attempted a header that missed the target (7′). Committed, the Lensois continued their efforts, like this first corner of the game in their favor. It was taken by number 11 but it was returned by the German defense (8′).
On the defensive side, the Artésiens are standing firm. Aleix Garcia’s cross in the sixteen-yard box was dangerous. Fortunately, Kevin Danso clears the danger (10′). Then, on Victor Boniface’s low attempt from outside the area, Brice Samba is vigilant and seizes the ball (12′).
Florian Sotoca’s team are not stingy with their efforts. The number 7 creates several opportunities, just like Adrien Thomasson, found in the area by a pass on the ground from Facundo Medina. He takes his chance but stumbles on the tackle of an opposing defender (7′).
Increasingly strong, Racing tried to impose itself on both sides of the field. Determined, it was rewarded in the 44th minute of play. Perfectly served by the left foot of Facundo Medina who had continued his run in the corridor, Wesley Saïd equalized with a header (1-1, 44′)!
After conceding the opening goal at the start of the match, the Blood and Gold gained momentum throughout the first half. Putting on good pressure, they equalised just before half-time (1-1).
