Ilan Kebbal made an immediate impact on his return to domestic football by scoring the opening goal in Paris FC’s 2-1 away victory over FC Nantes, a result that silenced the Stade de la Beaujoire and underlined the Algerian international’s growing influence.
Fresh back from the Africa Cup of Nations, where his involvement was limited, Kebbal needed only a few minutes to reassert his quality.
In the sixth minute, he capitalised on a costly defensive lapse by Francis Coquelin, who misjudged a clearance around 30 metres from goal.
Kebbal reacted sharply, darting forward to seize possession before driving a low left-footed shot beyond Anthony Lopes.
Despite a desperate attempt on the line by Tylel Tati, the ball crossed fully into the net, giving Paris FC an early lead.
The goal set the rhythm for a dominant first half from the visitors.
Nantes struggled to find cohesion, repeatedly pressed back by Paris FC’s energy and movement in midfield.
Kebbal was central to that control, operating intelligently between the lines, linking play and constantly offering a threat with his awareness and technique.
Paris FC appeared to double their advantage before the interval when Kebbal produced a clever no-look pass to release a team-mate through on goal.
The move ended with the ball in the net, but celebrations were cut short after a VAR review ruled the effort out, denying Kebbal a second decisive contribution before the break.
Nantes responded with greater urgency after half-time, pushing higher up the pitch and committing more players forward in search of an equaliser.
Their increased pressure eventually paid off, but Paris FC remained composed, drawing confidence from their earlier dominance and Kebbal’s influence in managing key phases of the game.
While the hosts enjoyed more of the ball in the second period, they struggled to match the clarity and sharpness Paris FC had shown early on.
Kebbal, though less advanced as the match wore on, continued to play a vital role, helping his side retain possession and relieve pressure during tense moments.
The goal takes Kebbal’s Ligue 1 tally to seven for the season, reinforcing his importance in Paris FC’s attacking structure.
His form has been consistent across competitions, having also delivered a decisive display in the Coupe de France against Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the week.
For Kebbal personally, the performance was particularly significant.
His limited involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations had raised questions about his role at international level, but his club displays continue to underline his ability to influence matches decisively.
By seizing his opportunity so emphatically at La Beaujoire, he sent a clear message about his readiness and confidence.
Paris FC’s victory represents a valuable result away from home and was built on a fast start, tactical discipline and Kebbal’s early intervention.
As the season progresses, his ability to combine creativity with composure in decisive moments is proving increasingly crucial.
Retour gagnant pour Ilan Kebbal 🇩🇿
Le crack du @ParisFC et de l’Algérie ouvre le score à la Beaujoire ! #FCNPFC pic.twitter.com/TdlT8PgCo1
— L1+ (@ligue1plus) January 18, 2026
