Toppmöller promises a hot battle against Slavia Prague

RC Lens coach Dino Toppmöller held a press conference on Wednesday evening on the eve of the Champions League match against Slavia Prague. Lens will travel on Thursday at 9 p.m. to the Prague pitch, with Matthieu Udol declared fit and Yacine Titraoui unavailable.

The direct style of Slavia Prague

According to Toppmöller, Slavia play very directly, sending many balls forward quickly. He notes the frequent presence of two to three, even four, players in the last line, which promises many duels and a high intensity.

The German coach stresses the need to implement his own game while sometimes being forced to play Slavia's style. He wants to exploit the identified weaknesses while maintaining physical pressure.

Patience and building after two setbacks in Ligue 1

After two consecutive defeats in Ligue 1, Toppmöller called for patience, reminding that the Blood and Gold are still in development. He emphasizes that the team has many youngsters and that they must “grow together” to create habits.

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He added that RC Lens' objective will be to “scrape points” away, even though away Champions League matches are always tricky. The club does not have much experience in this competition and is not used to playing it frequently.

“It will be a good fight, it will be hot, with many duels,” the German coach affirmed, promising an intense clash on Thursday night.

Matthieu Udol returned to collective training after a serious right‑thigh injury suffered against Lorient (0‑1). Toppmöller confirmed his green light and indicated that Jean‑Claire Todibo and Junior Kadile have also joined the group.

Without Yacine Titraoui, sidelined with hamstring injuries, Michael Cuisance and Amadou Haidara will form the double pivot, while Franjo Ivanovic could start up front. Captain Florian Thauvin said that “the Champions League comes at the right moment” to revive the squad.