RC Lens will welcome AJ Auxerre to the Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Saturday, 22 August 2026, for an exciting Ligue 1 encounter. The match is scheduled to kick off at 15:15 UTC (17:15 local time in France). Fixture details
Lens enter the new campaign with confidence after an excellent 2025-26 season. They finished second in Ligue 1 and won their first Coupe de France title by defeating Nice 3-1 in the final. However, the departure of midfielder Mamadou Sangaré and the arrival of new manager Dino Toppmöller mean the team will begin the season with some important changes.
Auxerre will also have a new manager in the dugout. Former Lens coach Will Still has taken charge of the club, making this opening fixture particularly interesting. His familiarity with Lens could help Auxerre prepare an effective tactical plan against their hosts.
Lens Team Preview
Lens are expected to play with intensity and attack aggressively in front of their home supporters. Stade Bollaert-Delelis is traditionally a difficult venue for visiting teams, and Lens will look to use that advantage from the opening whistle.
Their strong end to last season demonstrated the team’s attacking quality and defensive organization. Although changes in management and personnel could require an adjustment period, Lens still possess enough experience and depth to control large parts of this match.
Auxerre Team Preview
Auxerre finished the previous Ligue 1 season strongly, recording victories over teams such as Lille and Nice. Will Still’s appointment could introduce a more energetic and organized playing style.
The visitors may adopt a compact defensive structure and attempt to trouble Lens through quick counterattacks. Auxerre must remain disciplined, especially during the early stages, as Lens are likely to apply considerable pressure in front of their home crowd.
Lens vs Auxerre Head-to-Head
Lens have generally enjoyed the stronger record in recent meetings between these teams. Their previous five Ligue 1 encounters produced three Lens victories, one Auxerre win and one draw. Lens will therefore enter this contest as the favourites, although Auxerre have previously shown that they can compete effectively against them. Recent results and H2H
Match Prediction
Lens’ home advantage, stronger squad and excellent performances last season make them the more likely winners. Auxerre could create opportunities on the counterattack, but keeping Lens quiet for the entire match may prove difficult.