**Clermont FCO Defeats Nantes, Secures Ligue 1 Survival**

In a thrilling encounter, Clermont FCO edged past Nantes 2-1 in a match that was pivotal for both sides. The game, played at Stade de la Mosson, saw Clermont fight to avoid relegation while Nantes aimed to secure a top-half finish.

The match started with high tension, as both teams knew the stakes. Nantes, traditionally a dominant force in Ligue 1, were looking to maintain their momentum, while Clermont were desperate to escape the relegation zone. The first half was evenly contested, but Clermont struck first in the 35th minute when Gaëtan Laborde converted a penalty.

Nantes responded in the 54th minute, with a clinical counter-attack leading to a goal by Khéphren Thuram. The game was on a knife’s edge as both teams pushed for a winner. Clermont’s persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Laborde scored again, this time from a well-crafted move. Nantes’ attempts to equalize were thwarted as Clermont held firm.

**Key Moments:**

- **35th Minute:** Gaëtan Laborde gives Clermont the lead with a penalty.

- **54th Minute:** Nantes equalizes through Khéphren Thuram’s composed finish.

- **82nd Minute:** Laborde secures the win with a clinical goal.

**Context:**

This victory is a significant boost for Clermont, who now sit 14th in Ligue 1 with four games remaining. A win against Rennes on April 15 could see them move closer to safety. For Nantes, the loss ends their hopes of finishing in the top half, with a potential Europa Conference League spot now in jeopardy.

**Reaction:**

Clermont’s manager, Pascal Gallice, praised his side’s resilience: “We showed great character. We dug deep and fought until the end. This win gives us confidence for the remaining games.” Key player Laborde added: “It’s a huge result for us. We needed to win, and we did. The fans can be proud of how we fought.”

**Conclusion:**

Clermont FCO’s victory over Nantes is a monumental achievement in their fight for Ligue 1 survival. While the match brought mixed emotions for the fans of both clubs, it underscored the importance of each point in the final stretch of the season. For Clermont, the win is a much-needed boost, while Nantes’ defeat adds pressure as they aim to finish strongly. Fans of both teams will be eagerly awaiting the final weeks of the campaign.