Franjo Ivanović
LEN
Scores brace in 5-2 win
Ivanovic scored one goal to go with three shots (two on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 5-2 win versus AJ Auxerre.
Analysis: Thauvin started the season brilliantly with a brace in the opening game. The 33-year-old scored two goals with just three shots on target. Thauvin produced six crosses as well but none were accurate.
Loaned to RC Lens
Ivanovic joined RC Lens on a season long loan without an option to buy from Benfica, the club announced.
Analysis: Ivanovic broke through at Augsburg's academy before joining HNK Rijeka, where he scored 12 goals in his first full professional season, then moved to Royal Union Saint-Gilloise in 2024. He recorded 16 goals and five assists in 34 appearances while playing in a similar 3-4-3 system to Lens as the club won the Belgian title. That form earned him a call-up to Croatia's national team, where he has scored twice in World Cup qualifying, before joining Benfica last summer. He scored once in six appearances for Benfica, largely serving in a backup role. The 22-year-old forward is capable of playing across the frontline and is expected to serve as Lens' primary striker this season.
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