Lens: Bollaert-Delelis Unites for the First “Match of Memory”

RC Lens marked their 120th anniversary last weekend with an emotional first edition of the “Match of Memory”, held during their Ligue 1 fixture against RC Strasbourg Alsace. The event, now set to become an annual tradition, brought Bollaert-Delelis together in a powerful moment of remembrance for former players, supporters, employees and club figures who have passed away.

Before kick-off, the stadium fell silent as portraits of Sang et Or icons — from club legends to everyday supporters — appeared on the giant screen. The ceremony placed remembrance at the heart of the club’s identity, reflecting Lens’ long-standing bond with its community and mining heritage.

Huge home win for Lens to secure their third victory in a row 🔴🟡 pic.twitter.com/AHF6Ivp2Xw
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) November 22, 2025

Special Matchday Shirts and a Tribute to Ganiou

For the occasion, Lens players took to the pitch wearing commemorative shirts featuring a special 120th-anniversary remembrance badge and custom nameplates inspired by former club greats. These unique touches served as a visual link between generations of Sang et Or figures.

A particularly poignant moment came with the tribute to Ganiou, the beloved Lens supporter whose friendliness, energy and ever-present smile made him a familiar face around the stadium. His image was included in the remembrance sequence, ensuring that he, too, remained part of the club’s shared story.

Celebrating the Architects of Lens’ History

The club also highlighted the lives and legacies of several emblematic names, whose stories were featured as part of the remembrance initiative:

Arnold Sowinski, legendary goalkeeper and record-breaking head coach
Georges Duffuler, post-war standout between the posts
Henri Trannin, the visionary sporting director behind Lens’ golden generations
Anton “Tony” Marek, namesake of the famous Marek stand
Ryszard Grzegorczyk, Polish international and key figure of the 1970s
Marc-Vivien Foé, whose No.17 shirt remains retired
Papa Bouba Diop, hero of the 2001/02 season and Senegal icon
Daniel Leclercq, “Le Druide”, architect of the 1998 Ligue 1 title

Alongside them, the club honoured historic scorers such as Stefan Dembicki, Ahmed Oudjani, and Maryan Wisniewski, reinforcing how deeply their achievements remain woven into the club’s identity.