Arsenal had been delayed by one storm in the buildup to this tie and then, on a night that may have graver consequences, wilted under another.
The celebrations at full time showed how much this meant to Lens, who responded superbly to a ferocious atmosphere and played with tempo and intelligence that merited their win. It was a sharp reminder for Mikel Arteta’s players that progress to the round of 16 cannot be taken for granted but they left wondering whether that was the only damage incurred.
