# Ligue 1 Round 37: Nantes Edge Strasbourg 1-0, Boosting Relegation Hopes
In a crucial encounter in Ligue 1, Nantes edged Strasbourg 1-0 in Round 37, delivering a significant boost to their relegation survival hopes. The match, played at Stade de la Beauvaux, saw both sides fight fiercely for dominance, but it was Nantes who emerged victorious thanks to a solitary goal.
**Match Summary**
The game was a tense affair, with both teams creating chances. Nantes took the lead in the 35th minute when Gaëtan Laborde, a key figure in their midfield, scored with a clinical finish. Strasbourg responded well, throwing everything forward in search of an equalizer. Khéphren Thuram, who has been in fine form for Strasbourg, came close with a powerful header, but his effort rattled the crossbar. Despite their pressure, Strasbourg couldn’t break down a resolute Nantes defense.
**Key Moments**
The first half was dominated by Nantes, who capitalized on their numerical advantage to control possession. Laborde’s goal was the difference-maker, but it was Nantes’ ability to defend set-pieces that stood out. Strasbourg’s Thuram, known for his pace and strength, posed a constant threat, but Nantes’ center-backs dealt with him comfortably. In the second half, Strasbourg increased the tempo, but Nantes’ goalkeeper, Éric Bouad, made a crucial save to keep his team in front.
**Implications**
This victory is a huge boost for Nantes, who are now 11th in the table with five games remaining. A win against Reims in their next match could see them move closer to safety. For Strasbourg, the defeat is a setback in their own battle to avoid relegation. With just four games left, they need to improve defensively to turn their form around.
In a season marked by high drama, this result highlights the unpredictable nature of Ligue 1, where every match can change the trajectory of a team’s campaign. Nantes’ fighting spirit has kept them in contention, while Strasbourg’s inconsistency continues to be a concern. As the relegation race intensifies, both teams will need to dig deep in their remaining fixtures.