Grenoble’s Pape Meïssa Ba shines bright in pivotal second season

The Senegalese striker for Grenoble, is enjoying a milestone second season that sees him outshine his previous records. Spearheading his team’s efforts in the 2023-2024 season, Ba has already surpassed his goal tally from the 65 matches played in the previous Ligue 2 seasons. The surge in form has elevated Grenoble to third place in the standings, fueling hopes of promotion to Ligue 1.

Grenoble’s commanding 5-1 victory against Caen on February 3 further solidified their standing, placing them third in the Ligue 2 rankings with 40 points.

In this resounding triumph, Pape Meïssa Ba played a pivotal role, netting two impressive goals.

The 26-year-old striker showcased his skills with a perfect counter-foot penalty in the 45th minute and a clinical finish after receiving a pass from Joseph in the 54th minute.

Ba’s stellar performance not only secured the team’s victory but also propelled him to third place in the Ligue 2 scorers’ rankings with a total of 10 goals.

This accomplishment positions him ahead of fellow goal-scorers Soumano (11 goals) and Alexandre Mendy (15 goals), further solidifying his influence on the pitch.

Additionally, Ba has contributed two assists to Grenoble’s campaign.

Acknowledging Ba’s recent goal-scoring spree, Grenoble’s head coach, Vincent Hognon, expressed satisfaction with the striker’s regained confidence.

Hognon highlighted Ba’s offensive capabilities and his dedication to defensive duties, emphasizing the striker’s well-rounded contributions to the team.

Pape Meïssa Ba’s transformation is evident when examining the statistics. Before the current season, the former Red Star player had scored only five goals in 65 Ligue 2 matches.

In contrast, he has already doubled that tally in the ongoing season, having played 21 matches, including 14 as a starter.

If Ba maintains this impressive pace, Grenoble stands a chance of securing promotion to Ligue 1, marking a significant achievement and potential redemption for the Senegalese striker.

Ba, who clinched the French Ligue 2 title with Troyes in 2021, aims to secure a spot in Ligue 1 after being unable to play in the top tier the following season due to loan spells and a subsequent transfer.

Pape Meïssa Ba ???????? auteur d’un doublé face à Caen !

Son 10e But de la saison. #Ligue2 pic.twitter.com/1pbTkn1Q5a

— 13football_com (@13footballC) February 3, 2024