PARIS — Saudi Arabia’s Saud Abdulhamid made history on Thursday night by becoming the first Saudi footballer to play in the French top flight, appearing as a second-half substitute in RC Lens’ 1-0 loss to Lyon in the opening round of Ligue 1.

Abdulhamid, who joined Lens on a season-long loan from Serie A side AS Roma, received a warm ovation from the home crowd at Stade Bollaert-Delelis when he stepped onto the pitch.

Despite Lens' defeat, the moment was a personal milestone for the Saudi international, whose entry into the French league adds to the growing global footprint of Saudi football talent.

The match’s only goal came in first-half stoppage time (45+1) through Georgian striker Georges Mikautadze, who capitalized on a precise assist from Belgian winger Malick Fofana one of Lyon’s standout performers on the night.

The game also marked a turning point for Lyon, who recently emerged from financial uncertainty after the departure of former owner John Textor.

The French financial watchdog initially ruled the club ineligible for the top division, but that decision was overturned after new president Michele Kang convinced regulators of the club’s financial stability for the 2026 season.