Valenciennes Faces Must-Win Clash Against Nantes in Ligue 1 Survival Bid
Valenciennes’ hopes of avoiding relegation hinge on their performance this Sunday when they host FC Nantes for the 34th matchday of Ligue 1. While Nantes have nearly secured their place in the league for next season, the Northerners are battling to stay afloat, making this match crucial for their survival.
Valenciennes coach Ariel Jacobs will need every player to step up in the final stretch of the season, and one player who knows the weight of the situation is Jean-Christophe Bahebeck. On loan from Paris Saint-Germain, the Franco-Cameroonian striker has been inconsistent since a promising start to the campaign. After struggling to maintain form due to an injury that sidelined him for several weeks, Bahebeck has had to fight for a place in the starting lineup.
Despite the challenges, Bahebeck is clear-headed and self-critical. “I was trusted in the first half of the season, but what was expected of me didn’t happen,” he admitted in an interview with the club’s official website. He explained how the arrival of Waris and his subsequent performances led to a shift in the team’s dynamic. “It’s normal that I was no longer a starter or in the coach’s plans,” he said, acknowledging the team’s strong performance.
Bahebeck has not given up on helping Valenciennes in their relegation battle. “I worked hard in training to come back and made a few appearances. Whether I’m a starter or a substitute, the coach can count on me. I won’t give up until the end,” he added.
Looking ahead to the match against Nantes, Bahebeck stressed the importance of team unity and defensive solidity. “We have to stay solid defensively and continue to improve tactically. We are conceding goals that other teams don’t,” he noted. “We need to take control of the game and not wait for the opponent to make a mistake because they won’t. We must take our destiny into our own hands and get the three points.”
With just a few games remaining, Valenciennes’ survival in Ligue 1 depends on them securing vital points, starting with this weekend’s clash against Nantes.
