Opposed to PSV Eindhoven, can RC Lens mathematically reach the round of 16 of the Champions League this Wednesday evening?
On behalf of the 4e day of the Champions League, RC Lens challenges PSV Eindhoven at home this Wednesday. A favorable result would open the doors to qualification for the 8th for the Sang et Or.
A victory and it will almost be over for Lens
But, will Franck Haise’s men be assured of being part of the European top 16 if they win at Phillips Stadion? The answer is no.
In the best scenario, the one which would see them win in the Netherlands while counting on a success for Arsenal against Seville, the Artésiens would be in a very favorable ballot to reach the next round, but they will not yet be mathematically assured to be qualified. They will be 6 points ahead of both PSV and Sevilla and they will be just one point short of being able to uncork the champagne.
Whatever happens, the French vice-champions would do well if they win. And even a draw would allow them to keep their 2e place in the ranking and therefore keep their destiny in their hands.
As a reminder, in its history, RC Lens has never progressed beyond the group stage of the Champions League. He often came close to doing so, but each time finished third in his group. This was the case in 1998 and also in 2002. A series that it is time to stop.
