# Ligue 1 Round 37: Nantes Edge Past Strasbourg 1-0, Boosting Relegation Hopes
In a crucial encounter for both sides, Nantes emerged victorious in their Ligue 1 clash against Strasbourg, securing a narrow 1-0 win. The match, played at Stade de la Mediterranée, was a rollercoaster affair, but Nantes ultimately managed to edge past their opponents thanks to a well-timed strike and a solid defensive performance.
Nantes, who entered the match in 19th place, knew the importance of securing all three points to boost their relegation hopes. Strasbourg, meanwhile, were looking to extend their recent good form and maintain their push for a European spot. The game began at a steady pace, with both teams probing for weaknesses. Nantes came out of the blocks quickly, and within 15 minutes, they were ahead. A penalty converted by Gaëtan Laborde, after he was brought down in the box, gave the hosts the lead.
Strasbourg responded valiantly, throwing everything into attacking mode. Their pressure paid dividends in the 35th minute when they struck the post, but Nantes’ defense held firm. The second half saw Strasbourg dominate possession, but their efforts were thwarted by a resilient Nantes backline. Center-backs Khéphren Thuram and Andrei Grbic were particularly standout performers, making crucial tackles and interceptions.
Despite their numerical superiority, Strasbourg couldn’t break down Nantes’ defense. The visitors’ best chance came in the 80th minute when they hit the crossbar again, but the final outcome remained 1-0 in favor of the home side. Nantes’ victory moves them to 17th place, providing a much-needed boost in their battle to avoid relegation.
Nantes’ manager Antoine Mouret praised his players’ effort and resilience after the match. “We knew this was a crucial game for our hopes, and the players delivered,” he said. “We defended well, and although Strasbourg had more possession, we took our chances when they mattered. This win gives us a platform to build on, but we can’t get complacent.”
For Strasbourg, the defeat means they drop to third place, but their form still looks solid as they aim for a top-half finish. The match was a tale of two halves, with Nantes’ early goal proving the difference-maker. Both teams can take pride in their performance, but Nantes will be the ones celebrating after this crucial victory.
The relegation battle in Ligue 1 continues to heat up, and Nantes’ recent form will give them confidence as they prepare for their next game against Montpellier. With five games remaining, Nantes have a mathematical chance to survive, but they’ll need to replicate this level of performance.
In the meantime, Strasbourg will turn their attention to their next fixture against Metz, aiming to continue their push for a European spot. This match was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of Ligue 1, where even the smallest margins can determine the outcome. For Nantes, however, it was a step in the right direction as they seek to turn their relegation hopes into reality.