Moses Simon and Nantes’ relegation worries deepened on Friday night as they fell to a 2-1 defeat away to Rennes, despite a spirited performance in the closing stages.
The Canaries, who had hoped to climb out of the danger zone with a result at Roazhon Park, remain just two points above the drop with five matches to go.
Nantes’ only goal came through Mostafa Mohamed in the 54th minute after Truffert had given Rennes a first-half lead. Meite’s late strike condemned the visitors to defeat.
Simon's quiet night in Roazhon
Simon, who has been Nantes’ most influential player this season, struggled to make an impact on the night. The Super Eagles star completed 90 minutes but failed to register a shot on or off target, nor did he manage a successful dribble from his single attempt. He had 26 touches and completed six of his seven passes (86% accuracy), yet failed to create a single key pass or accurate cross from six tries.
The Nigerian winger also lost possession 14 times, although he drew four fouls, a sign of his constant threat to defenders even on an off night.
In duels, he won five of 11 on the ground but lost his only aerial contest. Defensively, the winger contributed a single tackle and was dribbled past twice without making any interceptions or clearances.
Despite the subdued showing, Simon remains Nantes’ standout performer this season, with seven goals and nine assists, the highest goal contribution tally in the squad. He continues to be the first name on manager Antoine Kombouaré’s team sheet and will be central to any survival hopes in the coming weeks.
Nantes, currently 13th with 30 points and a game in hand, face a tense run-in as the Ligue 1 season nears its climax.
