Danny Namaso scores as Auxerre lose 5-2 at Lens

Auxerre have started their Ligue 1 campaign with a defeat, despite a landmark moment for Danny Namaso. The Cameroon international scored his first goal in France’s top division, but his penalty could not change the outcome as Lens produced a dominant second-half display at the Stade Bollaert. Namaso was named in the starting line-up by coach Will Still.

Lens moved ahead in the 12th minute when Florent Thauvin converted from the penalty spot. That remained the only goal before half-time, but the match opened up after the break. Franjo Ivanovic doubled the home side’s advantage in the 49th minute, and Abdulhamid struck five minutes later to put Lens firmly in control.

Namaso gave Auxerre a response from another penalty in the 61st minute, reducing the deficit to 3-1 and registering his first Ligue 1 goal. Lens quickly restored their authority, with Ismaelo Ganiou adding to the visitors’ problems in the 66th minute. Lamine Sy scored Auxerre’s second goal three minutes later, but the late response was insufficient and Lens completed a 5-2 victory.

The result leaves Auxerre without points after the opening round, while Lens begin the season with a significant win against a side that struggled to contain them. For Namaso, the personal milestone was overshadowed by a difficult debut in the campaign. Auxerre’s two goals after the interval offered some attacking encouragement, but their defensive problems allowed Lens to maintain a decisive advantage.