Arsenal vs RC Lens LIVE! Champions League result, match stream and latest updates today
Arsenal blasted their way into the last-16 of the Champions League on a freezing night at the Emirates on Wednesday, crushing RC Lens 6-0 with goals from six different players and ensuring that they qualify top of Group B.
The home side took the lead in the 13th minute with a scrappy goal from Kai Havertz, their late-goal hero at Brentford on Saturday, before Gabriel Jesus doubled the lead by sending two defenders the wrong way and burying his shot in the corner.
Bukayo Saka drove the knife in with a third in the 23rd minute, bundling in a weakly parried ball with his body after a shot by Gabriel Martinelli, who twisted that knife four minutes later with a curled shot that left Lens goalkeeper Brice Samba diving at thin air.
Gunners captain Martin Odegaard made it five with the last kick of the first half, volleying in a long cross from Takehiro Tomiyasu charging down the right wing. After a quiet second half, Arsenal were awarded a penalty after a VAR review when Lens' Abdukodir Khusanov stuck out an arm in his own area in the 85th minute and late Arsenal substitute Jorginho slotted the ball home from the spot to complete a miserable night for the visitors.
Arsenal vs Lens highlights
GOAL! Havertz strikes early for Gunners
GOAL! Great work by Saka sets up Jesus
GOAL! Saka adds quickfire third
GOAL! Martinelli completes incredible opening half hour
GOAL! Odegaard rounds off mega first half
GOAL! Jorginho buries late penalty
Thanks for joining us!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 22:35 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal smash six goals past RC Lens to win Group B on their return to the Champions League.
Join us on Saturday for their home game against Wolves or, if you fancy, tomorrow as we bring you live Europa League action.
Recap Arsenal's big win with our match report!
Arsenal earn vital advantage with Lens rout but tougher tests to come
Wednesday 29 November 2023 22:32 , Marc Mayo
Simon's analysis is now online to get our full verdict on Arsenal's win.
Bukayo Saka insists he doesn't need the rest
Wednesday 29 November 2023 22:21 , Marc Mayo
Bukayo Saka has insisted he does not need the rest after starring in Arsenal's 6-0 win over RC Lens.
There was an injury worries over the winger, 22, on Wednesday night as he took a knock from a rough challenge in the first half but he bounced back to set up Gabriel Jesus and score himself.
Mikel Arteta took Saka off after 65 minutes with Arsenal 5-0 up, before Jorginho's late penalty sealed top spot in Champions League Group B with a game to spare.
"Not really!" he responded on TNT Sports when asked if he was happy to be taken off early.
"I wanted to play 90 minutes if I'm going to be honest."
Arsenal player ratings
Wednesday 29 November 2023 22:06 , Marc Mayo
ðððððððð ðððððððð
"Two outstanding assists, a raking pass for Martinelli and an excellent cross to set up Odegaard. Overlapped with real menace."
When's the last-16 draw?
Wednesday 29 November 2023 22:02 , Marc Mayo
The date of the draw is Monday, December 18, 2023 with the start time set for 11am GMT.
Gabriel Jesus reacts on TNT Sports
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:59 , Marc Mayo
"We were amazing, every one. It's not normal we score five quick goals like that. After we controlled the game, they had the ball and it was a little tricky to keep the ball.
"But everyone played amazing, the team performance was top. We have to keep going but we have a big one on Saturday.
"Our home support always pushes us. We are qualified but I have to check if we are first. Congratulations to the whole team."
FULL TIME!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:54 , Marc Mayo
A big, big win for the Gunners!
Arsenal 6-0 Lens | 90+1 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:51 , Marc Mayo
A HUGE roar from Gabriel as he prevents Elye Wahi from snatching a consolation.
All about that clean sheet!
Arsenal 6-0 Lens | 90 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:51 , Marc Mayo
Three added minutes as Lens enjoy a rare attack.
Arsenal 6-0 Lens | 89 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:49 , Marc Mayo
The Emirates Stadium crowd is starting to thin out as the 'ole' chants meet every Arsenal pass.
It's almost been too easy!
GGGGOOOAALLL!! Arsenal 6-0 Lens | Jorginho, 86'
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:46 , Marc Mayo
Martin Odegaard has the ball first but gives it to Jorginho, who has struggled a bit from the spot of late.
No hop, skip or jump here - he just buries it!
Penalty to Arsenal!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:45 , Marc Mayo
Abdukodir Khusanov handled the ball while trying to fend off Gabriel Martinelli and he's penalised by VAR!
No second yellow card yet for the teenager...
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 84 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:45 , Marc Mayo
VAR check!
We have a potential Arsenal penalty for a Lens handball in the area.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 82 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:42 , Marc Mayo
CLOSE!
Ben White flicks on a corner at the near post - just over.
And now the final change, it will be Gabriel Jesus off for Eddie Nketiah.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 80 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:41 , Marc Mayo
Ten minutes to go here and you don't fancy there will be much stoppage time.
Lens have given up the ghost, having shown a touch of fight earlier on.
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:36 , Marc Mayo
One substitution left for Arteta.
The fans will want to see Nwaneri or Lewis-Skelly thrown on, with the latter hoping to make his debut. He was born after the Emirates was built...
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 75 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:35 , Marc Mayo
Declan Rice gets a rest next, Jorginho on.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 74 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:34 , Marc Mayo
Martin Odegaard's hit from outside the box earns a corner, which Declan Rice of all people swings in.
It beats everyone until Reiss Nelson picks it up in the D, and Arsenal opt to sit in possession.
Around the grounds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:33 , Marc Mayo
Inter have scored three times to level up away to Benfica in Lisbon.
The Italians are already qualified for the last-16 and are in a battle with Real Sociedad to top Group D, the Spaniards drawing at home with RB Salzburg.
Bayern Munich also goalless with Copenhagen while Real Madrid and Napoli are tied at 2-2.
Benfica 3-0 Inter (34') ⏱️
Benfica 3-3 Inter (72') ⏱️
What a night of football 😳#UCL pic.twitter.com/Fe8Izxd0hh— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 29, 2023
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 67 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:28 , Marc Mayo
Delightful from Kai Havertz!
A sweet piece of skill dazzles his defender at the corner flag and he crosses for Martin Odegaard, the shot deflected and then parried by Brice Samba.
A free-kick goes to Lens in the scramble.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 66 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:26 , Marc Mayo
Bukayo Saka gets an early shower as Reiss Nelson enters the game.
Our third change of the evening...
↩️ Saka
🔛 Nelson
🔴 5-0 ⚫️ (66) pic.twitter.com/uqaDAIwmid— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
Dan Kilpatrick at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:25 , Marc Mayo
Rice is so influential with and without the ball. Snapping into tackles to break up any Lens moments and driving Arsenal forward whenever he's in possession.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 64 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:24 , Marc Mayo
And that's Abdukodir Khusanov straight into the book!
Not the best start to his Champions League career for the 19-year-old.
Massadio Haidara is then shown a yellow card for completely missing the ball and taking out Martin Odegaard with a bad slide tackle.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 63 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:23 , Marc Mayo
Jonathan Gradit departs for teenage Uzbekistan international Abdukodir Khusanov off the Lens bench.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 61 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:21 , Marc Mayo
Plenty of effort on Lens' behalf but it simply isn't happening for them in attack.
Arsenal not really having to try too hard to keep this clean sheet.
The French side's fans are still bouncing around in their corner, mind. Good on them.
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:17 , Marc Mayo
Unsurprisingly, Arsenal have dropped a bit since that blistering first-half.
The tempo is a little slower and Lens have finally got their breath back. Suspect Arteta will start to unload the bench more soon.
The Arsenal on fire 🔥#UCL pic.twitter.com/pHloNxTitJ
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 29, 2023
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 53 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:13 , Marc Mayo
The Gunners go on the attack for the first time this half, Declan Rice neatly spreading the play.
Gabriel Martinelli is then released down the left and beats his man, who very nearly dangles a leg out to trip the Brazilian before he runs into touch.
Dan Kilpatrick at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:08 , Marc Mayo
Tomiyasu was outstanding in the first half, creating two of Arsenal's goals with superb balls and nearly getting another assist with a cross headed just wide by Havertz.
He and Zinchenko are withdrawn at the interval, presuming with Wolves in mind at the weekend.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | 47 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:08 , Marc Mayo
Lens are playing for pride now and, as with much of the first half, want to get on the ball and knock it around.
Elye Wahi does well to spin a ball in, which is half cleared, before a misplaced pass finds touch.
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | Kick-off!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:06 , Marc Mayo
No surprise to see changes from both teams.
Ben White is back to ease into his injury return with Jakub Kiwior joining him.
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko depart.
Lens bring Deiver Machado, Neil El Aynaoui and Adrian Thomasson for Facundo Medina, Salis Abdul Samed and Florian Sotoca.
⚡ How things look at half-time...#UCL pic.twitter.com/d6MojxUJvF
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 29, 2023
Never been done before
Wednesday 29 November 2023 21:03
Arsenal are the first English team to bank this big a scoreline at half time of a Champions League game.
Their record win in the competition is a 7-0 trouncing of Slavia Prague in 2007...
Arsenal are the first English team to lead by 5 goals at half-time in a #UCL match 😵 pic.twitter.com/3UzPOYggMg
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 29, 2023
A word on Lens
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:56 , Marc Mayo
Have Arsenal been good or Lens been bad?
We all know the answer to the first part of that question but, yes, Lens have been very bad.
There's been so much space for the hosts to attack into, Franck Haise's side are defending like a five-a-side team who've just met each other.
⏯️ Le Racing en difficulté à la pause. Confrontés à une équipe d'un niveau technique supérieur, les Lensois sont menés sur un score lourd à la mi-temps de ce #ARSRCL. @Arsenal 5⃣-0⃣ @RCLens#UCL pic.twitter.com/sg7gncgdsQ
— Racing Club de Lens (@RCLens) November 29, 2023
All going to plan for Arsenal
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:51 , Marc Mayo
What more can you say?
It's been a dream night for Arsenal so far, we might well see the likes of Bukayo Saka taken off soon to preserve them for the weekend visit of Wolves.
Five first-half goals in N5 🤩 pic.twitter.com/7I8fE8w1mw
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
Arsenal 5-0 Lens | Half time!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:49 , Marc Mayo
That went rather well for the Gunners.
GGGGOOOOAAALLLL!!! Arsenal 5-0 Lens | Odegaard, 45+2'
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:48 , Marc Mayo
BOOM!
A lovely cross from the right is powered home by Martin Odegaard!
That might be game over.
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 45+1 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:46 , Marc Mayo
We're into two minutes of added-on time.
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 45 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:46 , Marc Mayo
A long ball into Gabriel Martinelli reignites Arsenal's hunt for goals and, after Kai Havertz shuns a chance to shoot from distance, Martinelli drives down the right-hand channel and hits the side netting.
Dan Kilpatrick at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:44 , Marc Mayo
This game is already an exercise in professionalism and conserving energy for Arsenal.
You wonder if Mikel Arteta might be thinking about second-half minutes for England U-17 internationals Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri who are both among the subs.
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 42 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:44 , Marc Mayo
Dangerous cross from Elye Wahi, a man Arsenal were linked with in the summer.
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 40 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:42 , Marc Mayo
POST!
Facundo Medina hits the post with a fine hit from range. A sign that a clean sheet is no guarantee for Arsenal here.
Sheer brilliance from the Gunners 😍 pic.twitter.com/P4srfMmjIa
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
Around the grounds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:39 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal aren't the only team making a fast start tonight as a Joao Mario hat-trick has Benfica three up against Inter.
Real Madrid conceded early at home to Napoli but now lead 2-1, Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham on the scoresheet.
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 36 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:37 , Marc Mayo
Kai Havertz handles the ball in the area and it's exactly like the Newcastle one that went against them at PSG.
It pops up off his leg onto his arm - and Lens want a penalty.
This time, VAR takes a look and says... no. Well then.
Highlights: Gabriel Martinelli completes mad half hour
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:36 , Marc Mayo
A delightful finish.
That is unbelievable from Gabriel Martinelli! 🤯
A beautiful ball from Takehiro Tomiyasu in the build-up to pick out the Brazilian, who puts Arsenal 4-0 up against Lens after just 27 minutes 😮💨#UCL pic.twitter.com/y4520w8LJB— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 29, 2023
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 32 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:34 , Marc Mayo
Bukayo Saka stays down after a fresh kick, having been targeted by Lens in the reverse fixture in France.
He seems okay to continue, you wonder how long Mikel Arteta will leave him out there though with the scoreline like this.
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:31 , Marc Mayo
A few Lens fans probably wondering if they can catch the last Eurostar home. 4-0 down inside 30 minutes.
Arsenal 4-0 Lens | 29 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:30 , Marc Mayo
"Are you Tottenham in disguise?" sing the home fans.
GGGGOOOOAAALLLL!! Arsenal 4-0 Lens | Martinelli, 28'
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:29 , Marc Mayo
PARTY FOOTBALL!!
A luscious long ball to Gabriel Martinelli allows him to bring it down, run into the box and fire into the far corner!
Highlights: Kai Havertz makes it 1-0
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:28 , Marc Mayo
Feels like it happened an hour ago!
KAI HAVERTZ SCORES AGAIN! 💥
The German appears to have found his feet, bagging his second in as many games to put Arsenal one up against Lens 💪#UCL pic.twitter.com/w4ZFcry61J— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 29, 2023
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:27 , Marc Mayo
Arteta stressed yesterday how "game state" was due to Arsenal's attacking struggles in Premier League.
Made the point how in Europe, teams don't sit deep and Arsenal hit them early.
Case proven tonight, again.
Dan Kilpatrick at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:26 , Marc Mayo
Lovely finish from Jesus and a lucky finish for the third by Saka.
After just 25 minutes, Mikel Arteta's side are on course for a thumping victory and heading to the knockouts as group winners.
GGGGOOOOOAAALLLL!!! Arsenal 3-0 Lens | Saka, 24'
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:25 , Marc Mayo
BUKAYO SAKA!
It's all going Arsenal's way as a rebound pops up onto Saka's chest and he nudges it home!
GGGGOOOOOAAALLLL!!! Arsenal 2-0 Lens | Jesus, 21'
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:22 , Marc Mayo
SUBLIME!
Bukayo Saka throws a foot in in the Lens box, it breaks for Gabriel Jesus who does brilliantly to evade a tackle and slot home!
Arsenal 1-0 Lens | 20 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:21 , Marc Mayo
Great win by Angelo Fulgini in the midfield allows Lens to put their first ball into the box - it evades everyone but they keep it.
Florian Sotoca's hopeful hit is blocked and he doesn't get the referee's call on a free-kick.
Arsenal 1-0 Lens | 17 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:18 , Marc Mayo
Bit early to focus too much on the result but it would mean Arsenal win the group and PSV go through in second place.
Lens cannot afford to lose here, let's see how they bounce back.
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:16 , Marc Mayo
Easy as you like for Havertz. Lens just ignored him as he wandered into the six-yard box. When your luck is in, it's really in.
Perfect start for him and Arsenal.
HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!
HAVERTZ LATCHES ONTO JESUS' HEADED PASS TO PUT US AHEAD ❤️
🔴 1-0 ⚫️ (13) pic.twitter.com/LaUCsmW5rz— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
Goal given!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:15 , Marc Mayo
VAR is indeed having a look before the restart...
Gabriel Jesus was ONSIDE!
GGGOOOOAAALLLL!!! Arsenal 1-0 Lens | Havertz, 13'
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:14 , Marc Mayo
KAI HAVERTZ AGAIN!
Gabriel Jesus might be offside though as he flicks the ball down for the German's smart run and finish.
Arsenal 0-0 Lens | 12 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:13 , Marc Mayo
CLOSE!
Again it's Takehiro Tomiyasu bombing forward and he stands the ball up for Kai Havertz to head across goal and only just wide.
Brice Samba in the Lens goal pulled back from that one - he'll claim he had it covered.
Arsenal 0-0 Lens | 10 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:11 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal playing it safe on the edge of the box, as a sign they're still yet to click into gear in this game.
Takehiro Tomiyasu tries to force the issue with a diagonal into the box but Lens clear and win a foul off Kai Havertz.
Around the grounds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:09 , Marc Mayo
Benfica have the first goal on the 8pm kick-offs in their home game against the already-qualified Inter.
🍿 Which game are you watching? #UCL
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 29, 2023
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:07 , Marc Mayo
The away end is quite literally bouncing right now. Hard to tell if the Lens fans are excited or just trying to keep warm.
Arsenal 0-0 Lens | 5 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:06 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal still feeling their way into this as first William Saliba then Kai Havertz make errors in possession.
Come on @Arsenal win for Megs @BobWilsonBWSC wife 🙌🙏 RIP
— Ray Parlour (@RealRomfordPele) November 29, 2023
Arsenal 0-0 Lens | 3 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:04 , Marc Mayo
As expected, Arsenal in a 4-3-3 with Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard flanking Declan Rice in midfield.
Gabriel Jesus already floating from his central role up top.
Arsenal 0-0 Lens | 2 mins
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:03 , Marc Mayo
A 5-2-3 formation for Lens tonight as the French side look to sit deep with two energetic central midfielders.
The wingers, Florian Sotoca and Angelo Fulgini, will also be expected to get running off the ball.
Arsenal vs Lens | Kick-off!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 20:01 , Marc Mayo
Portuguese referee Artur Dias blows his whistle and we're off!
Time for the anthem
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:58 , Marc Mayo
The Champions League anthem is played out with the old tarpaulin ball logo in the middle getting a good wave around.
Kick-off in this one is moments away...
Here come the players!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:57 , Marc Mayo
A roar of 'Arsenal, Arsenal' from the home fans as the two teams depart the tunnel!
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
The permutations
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:55 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal win tonight and they top Group B with a game to spare.
Arsenal draw tonight and they qualify but then need another point at PSV next month to finish top.
Arsenal lose tonight and they'll have both Lens and PSV just a point away going into the last matchday.
Packed away end for this one
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:54 , Marc Mayo
This is a big away day for Lens, with the short hop from northern France well trodden by fans in yellow and red.
Tous en 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒆𝒖𝒓 ❤️💛#FierDEtreLensois #ARSRCL #UCL pic.twitter.com/jYwNFv2FMH
— Racing Club de Lens (@RCLens) November 29, 2023
Mikel Arteta speaks to TNT Sports before kick-off
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:52 , Marc Mayo
"I love the energy and belief around the club.
"We need top quality players, without that it's very difficult.
"We try to change things game by game, our opponent has a lot to say in how we play.
"We have to find ways to win games, being difficult to beat is a big platform."
Arsenal vs Lens | Countdown to kick-off
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:50 , Marc Mayo
Just ten minutes to go until we begin in north London!
How Arsenal aim to rediscover route to goal in Champions League
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:47 , Marc Mayo
Given his commute to Arsenal’s training ground involves driving around the M25, it is little surprise Mikel Arteta has compared his side’s attacking struggles to being stuck in traffic.
Arsenal are top of the Premier League and can book a spot in the last 16 of the Champions League on Wednesday night with a point against Lens, but they are yet to fully click going forward this season.
The Gunners rank 11th in the Premier League for goals scored from open play — and defensive steel has instead been the bedrock of their success.
No team has conceded fewer League goals than Arsenal and Arteta has been accused of ditching last season’s eye-catching style for a more pragmatic approach.
Full time in Spain!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:43 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal have NOT received the favour they might have liked from Sevilla.
PSV have fought back from two down to win 3-2 in Andalusia, which at least means a point for the Gunners later on books them into the last-16 with a win meaning they are group winners.
Manchester United also led a lead slip in a dramatic 3-3 draw at Galatasaray.
A huge night for these two
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:34
Ethan Nwaneri has already been shot into the spotlight as the Premier League's youngest player.
The 16-year-old is joined by fellow England youth regular Myles Lewis-Skelly, 17, on the bench tonight.
Our @ArsenalAcademy duo in a @ChampionsLeague squad for the first time ❤️ pic.twitter.com/V2xVtDTUCN
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
Arsenal have changed since last year's near-miss, says Mikel Arteta
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:30 , Marc Mayo
Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal are playing with a tougher mentality that is enabling them to grind out results when not at their best.
“At the end, it is the capacity and the amount of resources you have to win a game, how many ways can you find to win a game,” said Arteta.
“Sometimes it will be that the weather doesn’t allow you [to play in the right way], sometimes it is fatigue, because you played three days before, sometimes it is the opponent, sometimes you are not at your best, but the team always finds a way to win.
“And that a lot comes from mentality and having that will to win, regardless of what is happening. Take it personally and make it happen.”
Simon Collings at Emirates Stadium
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:26 , Marc Mayo
It felt inevitable that Kai Havertz would start tonight. After his winning goal on Saturday, this is a chance for him to really build some momentum and get his Arsenal career going.
Arsenal vs Lens | Countdown to kick-off
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:23 , Marc Mayo
The warm-ups are getting underway so watch Simon in position at the Emirates deliver his thoughts on the Arsenal line-up.
"That's why Mikel Arteta has gone so strong tonight"
📽️ @sr_collings looks ahead to Arsenal vs Lens from the Emirates press box
LIVE: https://t.co/OVkHCuq0uQ#UCL | #ARSRCL pic.twitter.com/9oQbW1iiDI— Standard Sport (@standardsport) November 29, 2023
Around the grounds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:17 , Marc Mayo
Sevilla are down to ten men and beating PSV 2-1 in Spain at the moment.
Just 20 minutes left with this result meaning Arsenal will be through BEFORE kick-off vs Lens tonight.
In the other early kick-off, Galatasaray and Manchester United are 3-3 in a cracker.
Lens welcome back quartet
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:11 , Marc Mayo
A handful of changes for Lens after their 3-0 win at Clermont Foot on the weekend.
Abdukodir Khusanov drops out for the fit-again Kevin Danso in defence.
Massadio Haidara is also back, replacing Ruben Aguilar at wing-back with Nampalys Mendy in for Neil El Aynaoui in central midfield.
Adrien Thomasson scored in that game but is replaced by Florian Sotoca on the wing.
#ARSRCL, c'est dans une heure ! ⌛
Voici 𝐥𝐞𝐬 1⃣1⃣ 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐭 𝐎𝐫 choisis par Franck Haise pour débuter face à @Arsenal ! 👊
➡ Première titularisation en #UCL pour @MassadioHaidara.#FierDEtreLensois pic.twitter.com/MjYd8Po3Kg— Racing Club de Lens (@RCLens) November 29, 2023
One change for Arsenal
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:07 , Marc Mayo
Kai Havertz replaces Leandro Trossard in the Arsenal XI for the only change from the win at Brentford, delivered by a late goal from the German.
Ben White is fit for the bench.
🔴 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎 ⚪️
🥁 Introducing our starting XI for tonight's encounter with Lens - COME ON YOU GUNNERS! pic.twitter.com/NylnBgtvLv— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
How Lens line up tonight
Wednesday 29 November 2023 19:03 , Marc Mayo
Lens XI: Samba; Gradit, Danso, Medina; Frankowski, Mendy, Abdul Samed, Haidara; Sotoca, Wahi, Fulgini
Subs: Leca, Pandor, Aguilar, Machado, Maouassa, Khusanov, Pereira, Diouf, El Aynaoui, Thomasson, Said
How Arsenal line up
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:57 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal XI: Raya; Tomiyasu, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Rice, Havertz; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
Subs: Ramsdale, Hein, White, Cedric, Kiwior, Jorginho, Elneny, Nelson, Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri, Trossard, Nketiah
Why are Arsenal wearing black armbands tonight?
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:54 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal will be wearing black armbands tonight, in tribute to Megs Wilson, who passed away yesterday. Megs was the wife of the club's legendary goalkeeper Bob Wilson, and together they were the driving force behind the Willow Foundation, a charity which gives young adults with serious illnesses special days to remember.
The Willow Foundation was formed following the death of Megs and Bob’s daughter Anna in 1998, aged just 31.
Over the subsequent 24 years, the Willow Foundation has raised millions of pounds to enable over 20,000 young people to enjoy unforgettable experiences.
The Gunners are in the building!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:51 , Marc Mayo
Injury doubt Ben White joining the likes of Kai Havertz, Jorginho and Mohamed Elneny entering the dressing room in the past few moments.
We've arrived 👋
Team news 🔜 pic.twitter.com/u1HHAYAHHB— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 29, 2023
Throwback: Arsenal down Lens in UEFA Cup semi 23 years ago
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:45 , Marc Mayo
Dennis Bergkamp as cool as ever in front of goal!
6 April 2000: Arsenal 1 Lens 0 Uefa cup semi final.
Arsenal won this first leg through a goal from Bergkamp in the 2nd minute@Arsenal
pic.twitter.com/tWfFQUaRhC— The N5 History (@TheN5News) November 29, 2023
Arsenal vs Lens | Countdown to kick-off
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:41 , Marc Mayo
We are set to get the team news any minute now with just over an hour before kick-off!
Around the grounds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:35 , Marc Mayo
Sevilla lead PSV at half time in the other Group B game, which would certainly be a result for Arsenal as it confirms their place in the last-16!
Elsewhere, Galatasaray are back to 2-1 after cutting the deficit at home to Manchester United.
10,000 - Sergio Ramos has scored the 10,000th goal in UEFA Champions League history (excl. pre-group games and qualifiers), 31 years and 4 days after the first scored by Club Brugge's Daniel Amokachi in 1992. Milestone. pic.twitter.com/4c9Ub1qxAG
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) November 29, 2023
Head-to-head record
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:29 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal have only beaten Lens on two occasions, both of which came in their 1999-00 UEFA Cup semi-final.
Arsenal wins: 2
Draws: 1
Lens wins: 2
Earlier today...
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:22
Arsenal were knocked out of the UEFA Youth League after a 2-0 defeat at home to Lens.
Rayan Fofana and Oscar Lenne struck in the second half at Meadow Park to ensure the French youngsters topped the group.
𝑸𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒆́𝒔 ! ❤️💛#ARSRCL #UYL #MadeInGaillette pic.twitter.com/Sh90Ufy4gd
— Racing Club de Lens (@RCLens) November 29, 2023
Arsenal vs Lens | Match odds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:14 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal to win: 3/10
Draw: 16/5
Lens to win: 7/1
Around the grounds
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:07 , Marc Mayo
The early kick-offs have begun in the Champions League.
Manchester United have a 2-0 lead at Galatasaray after a corker from Bruno Fernandes followed up Alejandro Garnacho's opener.
Sevilla and PSV are goalless in this group's other game.
It's that man again 🇦🇷
Alejandro Garnacho's composed strike gives Man Utd an early lead in Turkey!#UCL pic.twitter.com/cYokgzKOKN— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 29, 2023
Arsenal vs Lens prediction
Wednesday 29 November 2023 18:01 , Marc Mayo
Lens got the better of Arsenal earlier this season, but the Gunners endured an off night and that is unlikely to happen in front of their own fans.
The Ligue 1 side have been impressive at the back in Europe but you would not bet against the hosts being in potent form with qualification and top spot up for grabs.
Arsenal to win, 2-0.
What we expect from the Lens team
Wednesday 29 November 2023 17:56
Predicted Lens XI: Samba; Gradit, Danso, Medina; Aguilar, El Aynaoui, Abdul Samed, Frankowski; Thomasson, Wahi, Sotoca
Early Lens team news
Wednesday 29 November 2023 17:50
Lens have been boosted by the return to fitness of defender Kevin Danso, while striker Elye Wahi is available to add to his goal from the first game despite being suspended for domestic matches.
Morgan Guilavogui is suspended.
What we predict for the Arsenal team
Wednesday 29 November 2023 17:45 , Marc Mayo
Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya; Tomiyasu, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Odegaard, Rice, Havertz; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
Early Arsenal team news
Wednesday 29 November 2023 17:36
Fabio Vieira has been ruled out for a number of weeks after groin surgery ahead of this game.
The Arsenal trio of Thomas Partey, Jurrien Timber and Emile Smith Rowe are still out, though the latter is closest to a return.
David Raya will return in goal after Aaron Ramsdale's shaky performance against Brentford, while Kai Havertz should keep his place after his last-gasp winner in that game.
Gabriel Jesus scored in the first game against Lens and could do with a goal tonight.
Where to watch Arsenal vs Lens
Wednesday 29 November 2023 17:31 , Marc Mayo
TV channel: In the UK, tonight's game will be televised live on TNT Sports 2, with coverage beginning at 7pm GMT. Kick-off is set for 8pm.
Live stream: Subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Discovery+ app and website.
Arsenal vs Lens LIVE!
Wednesday 29 November 2023 17:23 , Marc Mayo
Hello and welcome to Standard Sport's coverage of Arsenal's Champions League meeting with Lens.
Emirates Stadium hosts today's game with kick-off coming at 8pm GMT.
The Gunners can book their spot in the last-16 if they can earn revenge for defeat earlier in the campaign in northern France.
Simon Collings will be at the ground for us this evening to provide expert analysis and player ratings, with Marc Mayo on the blog's play-by-play calls.
Stay tuned for all the build-up, match action and reaction!
