Moses Simon played a pivotal role in FC Nantes’ unexpected 2-1 victory over Terem Moffi's OGC Nice, a result that saw the Nigerian winger outshine his compatriot in a thrilling Super Eagles derby in Ligue 1.
Nantes struck first in the 11th minute, with Douglas Augusto scoring with a powerful shot from the edge of the box. The assist for the goal came courtesy of Simon, whose precise pass allowed Augusto to fire home his third goal of the season.
Nice responded quickly, with Ali Abdi scoring an equaliser just three minutes later. The defender latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Hicham Boudaoui and slotted the ball under Nantes goalkeeper Anthony Lopes.
However, Nantes regained their advantage in the 38th minute. This time, it was Abline who reacted quickest inside the penalty area, sending an angled finish into the net to make it 2-1. Despite Nice’s late pressure, Nantes held on to the lead for the remainder of the match, securing a vital three points in their battle against relegation.
The Yellow Canaries currently sit 13th in the league and just six points clear of relegation.
Simon's stellar contributions for Nantes
The 2022 CAF POTY nominee’s performance was crucial to Nantes' success in this match, and his form this season has been impressive. In the win over Nice, Simon registered an assist, adding to his tally of seven goals and eight assists in 25 Ligue 1 appearances.
📊 Moses Simon in the Ligue 1 this season:
• Joint-most assists (9)
• Most successful club (105)
• Sixth most goal involvement (16)The Nigerian winger is living his best season ever. ⭐🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/UgwW0ucBRl
— HF World (@hfworld_) April 4, 2025
Alongside the likes of Rayan Cherki and Bradley Barcola, who also have nine assists this season, Simon is among the league’s top assist providers.
He has been shortlisted for the Marc-Vivien Foé Award for the second consecutive year, an acknowledgment of his consistent performances in French football.
