Mezian Soares made an unforgettable first appearance for RC Lens by scoring the only goal in Friday’s 1-0 victory over FC Nantes.
The 16-year-old attacker, who has represented Portugal at the youth level, entered the match in the 79th minute and found the net with his very first touch of the game. His strike completed a remarkable beginning to his senior career and secured a crucial result for Lens.
The success also guaranteed Lens a place in next season’s Champions League while preserving the club’s outside chance of winning the Ligue 1 title.
Pressure remains on Paris Saint-Germain
The victory moved Lens to within three points of defending champion Paris Saint-Germain in the league standings.
PSG still has an opportunity to extend its advantage when it faces Stade Brestois 29 on Sunday. The Paris club is also scheduled to meet Lens next Wednesday in a postponed league fixture.
Nantes relegated after defeat
For Nantes, the loss confirmed relegation to the second division for the first time since 2013.
The eight-time French champion will compete in Ligue 2 next season alongside FC Metz, which had already been relegated earlier.