### Lens Close to Paris in Ligue 1 Standings After Round 22
As the second half of the 2022-2023 season comes to a close, the Ligue 1 standings have undergone significant changes with Lens positioning itself as one of the leading contenders for the title. The club has been on a strong run since their impressive start of the season and have managed to secure a spot in the top six.
#### Round 22 Recap
In round 22, Lens secured a crucial 4-2 victory against Montpellier, which propelled them up three places in the league table. This win was particularly noteworthy given that they faced a challenging fixture at home. Their performance against Montpellier demonstrated their resilience and ability to come from behind, something that has become a hallmark of their campaign.
#### Key Performances
Several key players have stood out for Lens during this period:
1. **Thiago Silva**: The Portuguese defender continued his exceptional form, contributing significantly to Lens' defensive stability.
2. **Kévin Lèvesque**: The French midfielder has been instrumental in Lens' attacking play, providing both depth and creativity.
3. **Giovanni Di Virgilio**: The Italian striker has been a major force for Lens, scoring four goals in just five appearances this season.
#### Current Position
After round 22, Lens stands at ninth place in the Ligue 1 standings, just two points behind leaders Lyon. They have shown remarkable consistency throughout the season, maintaining their top-six position despite some setbacks along the way.
#### Next Steps
With only three more matches left in the season, Lens will face a series of tough fixtures including visits to Paris Saint-Germain and Nice. However, their current form suggests that they remain well-positioned to challenge for the title. Fans of the club can expect another exciting season ahead, filled with thrilling matches and potential playoff appearances.
#### Conclusion
Lens' journey in Ligue 1 has been nothing short of impressive. With their strong performances, resilient defense, and dynamic attack, they continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the competition. As the final stretch approaches, it will be interesting to see how Lens will fare against the top teams and whether they can finally break through into the top four.