**Nantes Triumphs Over Strasbourg in Ligue 1, Boosting Relegation Hopes**

*Subheadline: Nantes Secures Crucial 2-1 Victory Over Strasbourg, Strengthening Their Position in Ligue 1*

In a thrilling encounter at Stade de la Beaujoyeuse, Nantes emerged victorious over Strasbourg with a 2-1 win in Ligue 1, offering a much-needed boost to their relegation survival hopes. The match, which was a rollercoaster of emotions, saw Nantes take the lead early and withstand a strong challenge from Strasbourg before securing the points in the second half.

Nantes got off to the perfect start when Gaëtan Laborde converted a penalty in the 15th minute after Strasbourg’s defense were slow to react to a handball appeal. The visitors responded well, however, and leveled the score in the 35th minute when Habib Diallo capitalized on a defensive error to slot home. Strasbourg’s pressure continued, but Nantes’ defense held firm, weathering a series of chances.

The turning point came in the 65th minute when Nantes’ star striker Khéphren Thuram, who had been introduced as a substitute, made a decisive run into the box and fired a low shot past Strasbourg goalkeeper Anthony Mistol. Thuram’s goal proved to be the decisive strike, as Nantes went on to hold out for a hard-fought 2-1 victory.

**Key Players in the Match**

Antolín Hurtado was the hero for Nantes, scoring twice and demonstrating his clinical finishing in front of goal. His ability to exploit Strasbourg’s defensive gaps was pivotal to the victory. Meanwhile, Thuram’s introduction added a fresh attacking dimension, providing a much-needed boost to Nantes’ offense. Defensively, Nantes’ center-backs, particularly Éric Bailly, stood tall and played a crucial role in keeping Strasbourg at bay.

**Implications of the Win**

This win is a significant confidence booster for Nantes, who now find themselves 11th in Ligue 1 with five matches remaining. While they are still in a precarious position, the victory over a fellow struggling side like Strasbourg will give them renewed belief. Nantes are now three points above the relegation zone, but the battle to avoid dropping down to Ligue 2 is far from over.

**Quotes**

“Today, we showed belief and character,” said Nantes manager Thierry Henry after the match. “We scored twice and defended well. It’s a crucial win for us, and we’ll take confidence from this going forward.”

For Strasbourg, the defeat extends their winless streak in Ligue 1, and they now face a tough task to turn their season around. Nantes, however, will look to build on this performance and push for a positive finish to the season.

In a match that had everything, Nantes’ triumph marks an important step in their fight to stay in Ligue 1. With crucial games remaining, the coming weeks will be decisive for both Nantes and Strasbourg.