Chaotic start
Auxerre opened the session at the 10th minute when Arthur Piedfort used his hand in a duel with Ismaëlo Ganiou. Referee M. Vernice hesitated, blew the whistle for a penalty, but the VAR did not overturn the decision. Lens’s goal was thus validated, giving an immediate 1-0 advantage.
Red card and penalty
Twenty-five minutes later, at the 35th minute, Christ Makosso was sent off for a foul on Abdallah Sima. Auxerre found themselves at ten against eleven, heavily impacting the defense. The VAR confirmed the sending-off, leaving Auxerre in a disadvantaged position.
The third goal
At the 54th minute, the VAR overturned the referee’s decision to award Lens’s third goal, deeming Thauvin in a legal position. This decision further aggravated the Auxerre players’ frustration.
Penalty withdrawal
In the closing minutes, at the 88th minute, Mamadou Diop parried the Racing captain’s penalty. Lens’s goalkeeper left too early, and the VAR decided to withdraw the penalty, perceived as an unfair decision.
Will Still’s reaction
Will Still did not attend a press conference to detail the decisions but described the match as "super" despite the controversies. He smiled when mentioning Arthur Piedfort’s handball, calling the penalty an "extreme severity". He also defended Christ Makosso, asserting he had not committed aggression.
Outlook
Auxerre must prepare for its next match against Angers on Saturday. Will Still said they must remain positive but pragmatic, noting the season is not decided by losing to Lens at ten against eleven. The team will continue to work on the weaknesses identified.
Conclusion
The match highlighted Auxerre’s challenges against controversial refereeing decisions, but the staff remains focused on building a solid season.
