Simon is caged as Nantes’ fairytale season suffers setback

The Yellow Canaries’ unbeaten run was brought to an abrupt end at the Stade de l’Aube

Super Eagles star Moses Simon was helpless as his Nantes side’s six-game unbeaten run was brought to a screeching halt after they suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Troyes.

Nantes have undergone a total transformation this season- from a side battling to stay alive in the French Ligue 1 last season to a team hustling for a spot in Europe.

The Yellow Canaries travelled to Troyes, who are battling to stay alive in the French top-flight. Nantes had been brilliant in their previous six games, winning four of the last six. However, with Troyes seriously fighting for their lives, an upset was a possible outcome.

Troyes started the game with more purpose, keeping more of the ball and trying to break the Nantes’ defence. Nantes kept it tight until the 43rd minute when former Chelsea man Ike Ugbo broke the deadlock off an assist from Xavier Chavalerin.

Simon failed to create much from the left in the first half, but he came out guns blazing in the second. The Super Eagles star had 53 touches and attempted ten crosses in the game, but it all amounted to nought, as Troyes maintained their shape.

He tried to create chances for his side as he had two key passes on the night, but nothing solid materialised. However, he got served a yellow card after a cynical challenge in the 72nd minute.

Troyes held out for the 1-0 victory despite a late onslaught from the Yellow Canaries.

Nevertheless, Nantes can still dream, as they sit just five points behind the Champions League spots, although they have played a game more than their competitors.