Nantes striker scores late winner as Nice come back to beat the French champions 2-1

**Nantes Striker Scores Late Winner as Nice Come Back to Beat French Champions 2-1**

In a thrilling encounter at the Stade de France, Nantes’ striker delivered a late winner as Nice staged a comeback to edge out the French champions in a thrilling 2-1 victory. The match, which had all the drama of a top-tier clash, showcased the resilience of both sides, with Nantes ultimately clinching the points thanks to a dramatic late goal.

The game started at a steady pace, with both teams looking to impose their styles. Nice, as the French champions, started the stronger, and their pressure told in the 15th minute when they took the lead. A well-executed set-piece saw the ball delivered into the box, and Nice’s forward slid in to finish a clinical header. The goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy, but Nantes remained composed and sought to level the score.

Their patience paid off in the 42nd minute. Nantes’ midfield maestro played a precise through ball, and their striker timed his run perfectly to slot home from close range. The goal brought the traveling fans to their feet, and the half-time whistle left the score level at 1-1.

The second half was a rollercoaster of emotions. Both teams threw everything into the attack, but the defenses stood firm. Nantes had several chances to take the lead, with their striker twice coming close with efforts from outside the box. However, Nice also ramped up the pressure, and their wingers began to probe the final third.

The decisive moment came in the 88th minute. Nantes, sensing an opportunity, launched a swift counter-attack. The striker received the ball in the middle of the park and, with a burst of pace, outmaneuvered his marker before firing a powerful shot from 20 yards out. The ball flew into the top corner, leaving the Nice goalkeeper rooted and the away end in delirium.

Despite the late winner, Nice almost drew level in stoppage time as their substitute striker fired a shot wide of the target. But it was too little, too late for the champions, who saw their unbeaten home record crumble.

The match was a testament to the competitive spirit of French football, with both teams going all out to secure the three points. For Nantes, the win will boost their confidence, while Nice will rue their missed opportunities. For the fans, it was a spectacle to remember, with moments of brilliance and drama until the final whistle.

In the end, it was Nantes who left with the spoils, their late winner etching their name into the history of this thrilling encounter.