Paris Saint-Germain secure Champions League qualification ahead of Lens

Paris Saint-Germain secured their place in the UEFA Champions League for next season on Tuesday night after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Lens.

The French giants, who currently sit second in Ligue 1, had already qualified for the competition by finishing top of Group H, but they were determined to take another step towards securing their spot in Europe's premier club tournament.

And they did just that, thanks to goals from Edinson Cavani and Angel Di Maria, with Lens' late equaliser coming too little too late.

With the result, PSG now have 76 points from 29 matches, which is eight more than Lens, who finished third in the group.

It means that PSG will face either Manchester United or Liverpool in the round-of-16 draw, while Lens will play either Sevilla or Porto.

But despite the disappointment of missing out on a Champions League place, Lens coach Christophe Galtier said: "We have worked very hard and we are proud of what we have achieved this season."

He added: "I am happy with how our team has played, especially at the end of the game when we came back to level it up."

For PSG, the win was a much-needed boost as they look to maintain their title challenge against bitter rivals Paris FC.

Manager Unai Emery said: "We have shown great character today and I'm really pleased with the way we fought until the last minute."

He added: "This is a big step forward for us and we're looking forward to facing Manchester United or Liverpool in the round-of-16."

Overall, it was a fantastic performance from PSG, who showed their class throughout the match and deservedly took all three points.

Heading 1: Paris Saint-Germain Secure Champions League Qualification Ahead of Lens

Heading 2: Goals from Edinson Cavani and Angel Di Maria Secure PSG Place in Champions League Next Season

Heading 3: Lens Coach Christophe Galtier Praises Efforts Despite Missing Out on Champions League Spot

Heading 4: PSG Manager Unai Emery Celebrates Victory and Looks Forward to Round-of-16 Match Against Manchester United or Liverpool

Heading 5: PSG Showcases Character and Class in Win Over Lens, Securing Champions League Place Next Season