### Lens Edge Ajaccio After Three Goals From Fofana

In a thrilling encounter at the Stade de la Villette in Paris, Lens edged out Ajaccio 3-2 to secure their place in the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals. The match was a testament to the resilience and skill displayed by both teams, with striker Yannick Fofana setting the tone early on.

#### Early Striker Power

Fofana's first goal came just six minutes into the game as he capitalized on a corner kick. His powerful header from the left side of the box found the back of the net, giving Lens the lead they needed to dominate the rest of the contest. This early strike set the momentum firmly in favor of the French outfit.

#### Midfield Dominance

Ajaccio, despite being without key players like Mathieu Valbuena and Lucas Leiva due to injury, showed strong defensive solidity. However, Lens' midfield was relentless, with Benjamin Mbenza and Victor Osimhen providing a lethal combination of pace and technical ability. Their controlled play allowed them to dictate the tempo of the game and create numerous chances for attack.

#### Second Half Triumph

In the second half, Ajaccio finally managed to扳平比分. A well-worked counterattack saw Romain Gignac find space in the penalty area and score his first goal of the night. This equalizer put the pressure on Lens, who had been dominating possession but lacked consistency in finishing.

#### Final Standoff

The final stages of the match were tense as both teams continued to press. Lens, however, remained more clinical in their approach. With the clock ticking down, Fofana once again stepped up to take advantage of a free-kick opportunity. This time, he converted from the spot, securing the victory for Lens.

#### Conclusion

The victory over Ajaccio is a significant milestone for Lens, marking their first quarterfinal appearance in the Europa League since 2017. The performance against a team that has consistently challenged them this season demonstrates the depth of talent within the club. Fofana's hat-trick highlights his form and his importance to the team's attacking strategy. As Lens look forward to their next challenge, this win serves as a reminder of their potential and the strength of their squad.