Simon shines as Nantes boost survival hopes
Super Eagles forward Moses Simon played a crucial role as Nantes earned a vital 3-1 win over Lens at the Stade de la Beaujoire on Sunday, strengthening their quest to beat the Ligue 1 drop.
Moses scored their second of the game from the penalty spot on the hour mark for his sixth of the campaign in 21 games while he also has seven assists.
Louis Leroux had opened the scoring for the hosts in the 36th minute, giving Nantes a deserved lead heading into the break.
Moses Simon then extended their advantage from the penalty spot in the 60th minute.
However, Lens quickly responded, with Neil El Aynaoui converting a penalty just five minutes later. In stoppage time, Meshack Elia sealed the victory, netting Nantes’ third to secure a 3-1 triumph.
Simon, who was initially a major doubt for the match after sustaining a knock in training on Tuesday, overcame the setback to earn a spot in manager Antoine Kombouaré’s starting XI.
He lined up in the attacking trio alongside Matthis Abline and Mostafa Mohamed.
Sunday’s triumph marked Nantes’ third home win of the season across all competitions. The result sees them climb one spot in the league standings, now sitting 14th with 24 points from 23 matches.
Moses Simon delivered an influential performance before making way for Francis Coquelin in the 89th minute.
The Nigerian winger was clinical with his only shot on target, converting from the penalty spot, while another attempt was blocked.
He showcased his dribbling prowess, completing four of his eight take-on, and was a key creative force with two key passes, one big chance created, and four successful crosses from seven attempts.
Simon was heavily involved in Nantes’ attacking play, recording 51 touches and completing 18 of his 20 passes with a 90 per cent accuracy rate.
Defensively, he contributed with one clearance and battled hard in duels, winning eight of 14 ground contests while drawing three fouls. Despite missing one big chance, his all-round display was crucial to Nantes’ victory.
