In the framework of Matchday 23 in Ligue 1, Lille played Angers, Nantes hosted Le Havre, and Lorient competed on Nice’s turf. Lille and Nantes finally tasted victory, while Nice was caught up by Lorient in the dying moments. Find out the results of this multiplex.
Nantes revives with success
Despite a rather average match, Nantes resuscitated its chances in the relegation battle by overcoming Le Havre 2-0 on Sunday in Matchday 23 of Ligue 1.
The Canaries, who had suffered five consecutive defeats, took advantage of Auxerre’s 3-0 loss to Rennes to equal the Bourguignons on points (17) in 15th place. However, they remain 16th due to goal difference.
In a match hanging by a thread and missing Matthis Abline, coach Ahmed Kantari chose a 5-3-2 formation with former Cameroonian international Ignatius Ganago starting alongside Youssef El Arabi up front.
This strategy paid off as both forwards were involved in the goals. Nantes barely created any chances in the first half, but a strong start with Ganago’s press led to the opening goal.
The second goal came from El Arabi’s efforts, putting Nantes in a promising position to secure their survival in Ligue 1 in the final matchday.
Maybe a good omen for the Canaries, who struggled to create opportunities in the second half apart from a few chances. Despite this, they managed to outshine the worst attacking team away from home in Ligue 1.
A shot from Rassoul Ndiaye off target (70th minute) and a save from Anthony Lopes in stoppage time were the only threats to Nantes’ goal.
This victory needs to be capitalized on in the upcoming matches against Lille and Paris SG, as well as a crucial clash against Metz and Auxerre in early April.
Lille bounces back with Giroud
In an empty stadium, Lille defeated Angers 1-0 on Sunday in Matchday 23 of Ligue 1, reigniting their hopes for European qualification.
Temporary overtaken by Rennes, who beat Auxerre 3-0, Lille climbed back to 5th place on goal difference (+5 against +2), ending a six-match winless streak in the league.
Lille is now just three points behind Marseille in 4th place, potentially leading to a Champions League berth next season.
Angers, on the other hand, remains comfortably in 12th place with 29 points.
The compromise with the local authorities, transitioning the match to a behind-closed-doors setting from a postponed match, created a somber atmosphere reminiscent of the early pandemic days at the Raymond-Kopa Stadium.
However, the northerners displayed composure, securing a crucial win amid a spell of poor results and confidence issues. The victory is a morale booster for the club, especially for coach Bruno Genesio, whose position was questioned during the week.
At Angers, Lille reclaimed success through the iconic figure of their challenging period, Olivier Giroud. The 39-year-old former international striker ended his goal drought in Ligue 1 with a penalty just before half-time. The narrow victory was well-deserved, as Lille dominated proceedings but were denied by some outstanding saves from Angers’ goalkeeper Hervé Koffi.
Lille’s renewed confidence comes ahead of a crucial period, with a Europa League playoff against Red Star Belgrade following a first-leg defeat at home.
Nice held to a draw by Lorient in stoppage time
Nice, still recovering, let victory slip away in the last minute against Lorient on Matchday 23 of Ligue 1, resulting in a 3-3 draw at the Allianz Riviera. In contrast, Lorient extended their positive streak with a comeback draw.
With 24 points, Nice now has a seven-point cushion over relegation playoff spot Auxerre, though nothing is guaranteed. Lorient, on the other hand, continue their impressive run and sit five points behind 6th-placed Rennes.
Many had anticipated this match due to previous events, including fan hostility towards players after a defeat in the reverse fixture. Despite a solid first half, Nice conceded late, leading to a disappointing draw.
The match showcased the mental resilience of Lorient, who fought back from a two-goal deficit. Despite a late equalizer, the two teams will face each other again in the Coupe de France quarterfinals on March 4th.
