PARIS (AP) — Lens won its only French league title 27 years ago. But the northern club has confounded expectations this season and tops Ligue 1 ahead of defending champion Paris Saint-Germain.

Long known a coal-mining city, Lens has a passionate and loyal fanbase who ensure a passionate atmosphere at the 38,000-capacity Stade Bollaert-Delelis, and they've been treated to good performances so far.

Led by the flair of goal-scoring winger Florian Thauvin , Lens is one point ahead of PSG heading into the 16th round.

Key matchups

Lens is at home on Sunday against a Nice side in total disarray after seven straight defeats.

Despite considerable backing from chemicals giant Ineos, which took over six years ago, Nice still seems unable to find the right formula and some fans have turned o

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