In the second round match of the French championship, Lens will play away against Strasbourg. At some point last season, both teams were contenders for a place in the Champions League. In the end, Lens stylishly achieved its goal, winning the Coupe de France and the French Super Cup, while Strasbourg slid and, it seems, is returning to mid-table status. And that is only thanks to close cooperation with Chelsea, which supplies Strasbourg with players for practice. Without this boost, the Alsatians could easily be fighting for survival. They have kept an exciting attacking football, but at the same time they have lost efficiency in attack and reliability in defense. What this leads to was shown in the first round — Strasbourg lost to Marseille 0-4. Of course, Strasbourg can complain that they spent the last half hour with a man down, but by all accounts the Provençal side were stronger, and such a drubbing of Strasbourg looks deserved. And Lens will not be an easier opponent. But at home, the home support can help as well. Lens, after a substantial squad overhaul, which many evaluated skeptically, started the season with a bang. First they beat PSG (1-0) in the battle for the French Super Cup, and then in the opening round they defeated Auxerre. The Burgundians gave a fight, but lost 2-5 to the 'blood-and-gold'. Lens has shown excellent attacking form from the very start of the season. In a meeting of two attacking-minded teams, one can expect plenty of dangerous moments and goals. At the same time, Lens will be the favourite. But surprises are possible.