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AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-09-10 16:53 UTC
Slavia Prague and Lens prepare for Champions League opener
Tomas Chory enters this Champions League opening match in peak form, serving as the focal point for a Slavia Prague side that has been clinical in front of goal throughout their recent domestic campaign. As Slavia prepare to host Lens at the Fortuna Arena this Thursday, the battle between Chory’s physical presence and the visitors' defensive structure will likely define the opening exchanges of this European tie.
Slavia Prague are expected to field a balanced lineup, with Jakub Markovic in goal protected by a defensive unit featuring David Jurasek and Tomas Vlcek. In midfield, the creative burden will fall on Wiktor Nowak, who has been a consistent source of inspiration for the team, while Chory and Danijel Sturm are expected to lead the line. The hosts have demonstrated a remarkable ability to finish matches strongly, often finding the net late in proceedings to secure results.
Lens arrive in Prague looking to reset their momentum after a challenging start to their domestic season. The expected XI features Robin Risser in goal, with a defensive line anchored by Pierre Ganiou and Kyllian Antonio. In the final third, Florian Thauvin remains the primary creative spark for the French side, tasked with unlocking the Slavia defence alongside forwards Abdallah Sima and Franjo Ivanovic.
Both sides face significant personnel challenges that could force tactical adjustments on the night. Slavia Prague must navigate the absence of several key figures, including David Zima, Lukas Provod, and Tomas Holes, which will test the depth of their squad in such a high-stakes competition. The rotation of their defensive and midfield options will be critical to maintaining the intensity they have shown in recent weeks.
Lens are similarly hampered by injuries, with Maik Nawrocki, Yacine Titraoui, and Saud Abdulhamid all sidelined. The visitors will need their available core to remain disciplined, particularly in the midfield battle where Michael Cuisance will be expected to provide stability against a high-pressing Slavia outfit. Managing these gaps will be essential if Lens are to leave the Fortuna Arena with a positive result.
Slavia Prague head into this match on the back of a dominant run in the 1. Liga, including a commanding 4-0 victory over FC Zbrojovka Brno and a significant 3-0 win against rivals Sparta Prague. Their defensive record has been particularly impressive, with five clean sheets kept across their last 10 matches, providing a solid foundation for their European ambitions.
Lens have experienced a more turbulent period, suffering consecutive defeats in their most recent domestic outings against Lorient and Strasbourg. However, their ability to compete at the highest level was highlighted by a victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Super Cup earlier this season. They will look to rediscover that level of performance as they step onto the pitch for this Champions League matchday 1 encounter.
Confirmed by FIFA officials.
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