: Lens Win First UCL Game in 21 Years as Arsenal Suffers Defeat Compounded by Bukayo Saka Injury

 Subtitle: Arsenal's European campaign begins on sour note

Date: October 4, 2023

On a thrilling night in the UEFA Champions League, French side RC Lens returned to Europe's premier club competition with a historic victory over Arsenal. The Gunners, on the other hand, endured a disappointing start to their UCL campaign, losing their star player to a worrying injury.

Club Lens, absent from the UEFA Champions League for more than two decades, showed their resilience and determination with a 3-2 win at the Stade Bolarte-Delice. It was a momentous occasion for the northern French side, and their fans reveled in Europe's elite competition.

The game was a rollercoaster ride from start to finish, with both teams showing attacking intent. Lens scored first in the 23rd minute when Arthur Cabral sent the home crowd into rapture with a penalty. However, Arsenal responded immediately and with Emil Smith Rowe's goal, the team performed well.

The drama intensified in the second half, with Lens taking the lead through Thorgan Hazard's well-placed strike. Arsenal got back into the game with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's header.

But Lens said the final, as Lucas Gorna-Douth scored in the 88th minute to win. The win marked Lens' first appearance in the UEFA Champions League since 2002 and served as a reminder of the club's potential on the European stage.

However, this victory was a big shock for Arsenal. In the last stage of the game, Bukayo Saka was forced to leave the pitch due to an injury. The extent of the injury is yet to be confirmed, but the young English talent's prolonged absence will be a significant setback for Arsenal. Saka has been a key figure for the Gunners and his presence is particularly missed at important European fixtures.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta now faces the challenge of reorganizing his squad and addressing defensive weaknesses that have been evident throughout the game. As Lens celebrate their historic victory, the Gunners will be keen to regain their footing in a highly competitive Champions League group.

As the dust settles on this exciting encounter, it is clear that Lens' return to the UEFA Champions League has added new life and excitement to the competition. Meanwhile, Arsenal face a daunting task in terms of both their European campaign and the road to recovery for their injured star, Bukayo Saka.