Sotoca Inspires Lens Victory Over Lyon at Bollaert

RC Lens forward Florian Sotoca became the focus of the club's 2-1 victory over Olympique Lyonnais at Bollaert, where his first-half goal helped deliver a memorable performance and renewed celebration from the home supporters, according to L'Équipe.

Sotoca opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a finish described by L'Équipe as a pure striker's move, despite that type of goal not being considered his usual trademark. He celebrated the goal with Florian Thauvin and Ruben Aguilar.

L'Équipe reported that the Lens supporters revived a chant linked to Sotoca during the post-match celebration at Bollaert.

"Sotoca Ballon d'Or! Sotoca Ballon d'Or!" was heard among Lens supporters at Bollaert.

The goal added to the attention surrounding the 35-year-old forward, who turns 36 on October 25. According to L'Équipe, Sotoca has been used less frequently since the previous season but produced a decisive moment against Lyon.

The newspaper also noted that the atmosphere recalled the successful period associated with former Lens coach Franck Haise. The supporters' reaction highlighted Sotoca's long-standing connection with the club's fan base.

Lens entered the match looking to recover from a difficult run in Ligue 1, with the victory ending Lyon's unbeaten start to the league campaign, according to the previous report from Eurosport.fr. The result moved Lens temporarily into seventh place, while Lyon stayed second with 11 points, according to DAZN.

L'Équipe's report focused on Sotoca's individual contribution after a match in which Lens secured an important result against one of the league's leading teams. The forward's goal became the defining moment of the contest at Bollaert.