**Nantes Edge Montpellier 1-0 in Close Victory, Muani Scores to End Streak**
In a thrilling encounter, Nantes secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Montpellier in a Ligue 1 clash, with a late goal from Khéphren Thuram Muani proving decisive. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both sides creating chances and displaying attacking intent.
The game began with both teams probing for weaknesses, and Montpellier came close in the 15th minute when a well-worked move saw Andy Delort fire a powerful shot that forcing Nantes goalkeeper Éric Bailly into action. The visitors dominated possession early on, but their pressure didn’t translate into a goal until the 73rd minute.
That’s when Muani, who had been a constant threat, struck the decisive blow. A clever through ball from Gaëtan Laborde found the striker inside the box, and he finished with a clinical first-time shot past Bailly. The goal sent the Stade de France into wild celebrations, as Nantes ended a three-game winless streak.
Montpellier, despite their efforts, couldn’t find an equalizer, and Nantes held on to secure the points. The victory moves Nantes up to seventh place in the table, while Montpellier drop to ninth.
“Defensively, we did well, and the goal from Muani changed the game,” said Nantes head coach Antoine Arnaud. “We needed to win, and we did. It’s a crucial three points for us.”
For Montpellier, coach Michel Nussbaum expressed frustration: “We created chances, but we couldn’t capitalize. Nantes took their one chance, and that’s how the game went. We’ll learn from this and come back stronger.”
This result keeps the pressure on both sides as they prepare for their next fixtures. Nantes will look to build on this performance, while Montpellier aim to bounce back and challenge for a European spot.
In the end, Muani’s late winner proved the difference, and Nantes’ fans will be buoyed by this hard-fought victory. The match was a test of endurance and skill, and Nantes emerged victorious to end their run of draws.