Montpellier’s fight for Ligue 1 survival took a positive step forward with a 1-1 draw against Nantes. The result leaves both sides further away from the relegation zone, but Montpellier are now on the verge of safety.
The home side got off to a dream start with a goal inside two minutes. Akor Adams capitalized on a Nantes free-kick and raced down the field to fire home. However, Nantes responded quickly. Matthis Abline equalized just five minutes later following a neat pass from Mostafa Mohamed.
The first half was action-packed with both teams exchanging blows. Benjamin Lecomte, the Montpellier goalkeeper, made some crucial saves to deny Mohamed and Abline. Montpellier also had chances to retake the lead, but Adams and Arnaud Nordin couldn’t find the target.
The second half was a tighter affair with fewer clear-cut opportunities. Florent Mollet nearly put Nantes ahead with a header, while Téji Savanier, Montpellier’s captain, went close with a long-range effort. Substitute Samuel Moutoussamy had a late chance for Nantes, but his shot flew over the bar.
Montpellier’s indiscipline cost them in the dying minutes as Lucas Mincarelli and Nordin were shown red cards for separate incidents. Despite finishing with nine men, Montpellier held on for a crucial point.
This result means Montpellier are now nine points clear of the relegation playoff spot and are almost guaranteed to remain in Ligue 1 next season. Nantes, meanwhile, are four points clear of the drop zone and breathing a sigh of relief.
Man of the Match: Téji Savanier (Montpellier)
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