El Arabi Rescues Nantes in Stoppage Time: Western Derby Delivers Final-Day Drama

Sehr unterhaltsam Futmetrix-Wertung: 72/100. A Western Derby where intensity peaked at the death—Nantes snatched a 90th-minute equalizer against a dominant Rennes, transforming a relegation-battle defeat into a vital point at Stade de la Beaujoire.

Rennes Controlled, Then Lost Their Grip

Rennes dictated play with 57% possession and surgical passing (87% accuracy). Ludovic Blas opened from the penalty spot in the 29th minute, before Emmanuel Lepaul doubled the lead at 35 minutes (assisted by Amir Seidu). The balance seemed tilted irreversibly. Nantes, sitting 16th with just 4 points, appeared destined for collapse.

The Canaries' Resurrection: Mwanga Then El Arabi

Junior Mwanga reignited hope in the 64th minute with a crucial goal. But the final act belonged to the substitute: Youssef El Arabi, introduced at the 82nd minute, struck gold at the death—a 90th-minute equalizer off a pass from Matthis Abline. A salvational strike that transforms this Western Derby into a relegation battle turning point.

The Numbers Tell the Story of Chaos

Nantes fired 16 times (4 on target); Rennes managed 8 (4 on target). Despite controlling the match, Rennes failed to kill it off. Combined 32 fouls, 4 corners apiece. The stakes of survival elevated this regional clash into a battle where mentality conquered tactical superiority.