RC Lens moved provisionally to the top of Ligue 1 after a commanding 5-1 victory over Angers, with Malian midfielder Mamadou Sangaré playing a central role in a performance that underlined his growing influence.
The result, secured at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, lifted Lens to 59 points, two ahead of Paris Saint-Germain, who have two games in hand.
The win strengthens the northern club’s unlikely push for the title, with Sangaré emerging as one of the key figures behind their recent form.
Friday’s contest was effectively decided before half-time, as Lens took control with three goals in a dominant opening period.
Florian Thauvin opened the scoring in the 13th minute, capitalising on a lapse in concentration from Angers to fire home a half-volley.
The hosts doubled their lead shortly afterwards when their pressing forced an error, allowing Thauvin to set up Odsonne Edouard for a composed finish.
Sangaré then added a third goal six minutes before the interval, striking with his left foot to extend Lens’ advantage and put the game beyond doubt.
It was his third goal of the season, but his impact stretched far beyond the scoreline.
Edouard added his second early in the second half to make it four, before Angers pulled one back through Lanroy Machine just after the hour mark.
However, Matthieu Udol restored the four-goal cushion with an acrobatic effort late on to complete the rout.
While the scoreline reflected Lens’ overall superiority, Sangaré’s performance in midfield stood out.
The 23-year-old has increasingly become a driving force in the team, combining defensive work with attacking intent.
Against Angers, he was involved in pressing, ball recoveries and forward transitions, helping to dictate the tempo of the match.
His recent displays suggest a player growing in confidence and responsibility.
In previous matches, including fixtures against Strasbourg, Metz and Lorient, Sangaré has consistently contributed both defensively and offensively, whether by controlling possession, creating opportunities or providing decisive moments in key phases of play.
This sustained run of form has seen him establish himself as a central figure in Lens’ midfield, with his ability to influence games becoming increasingly evident.
Against Angers, his composure and control ensured the team maintained fluidity in transition while keeping pressure on their opponents throughout.
As the season enters its final stages, Lens will look to maintain their momentum in the title race.
If Sangaré continues in this vein, he could prove instrumental in determining just how far the club can go in what is shaping up to be a remarkable campaign.
