Valenciennes Thrashed by Nantes as Tensions Boil Over with Fans
Valenciennes endured a humiliating 6-2 defeat at home to FC Nantes on Saturday, leaving the club mired in relegation trouble and sparking ugly scenes between fans and players after the final whistle.
The emphatic victory for Nantes, led by a standout performance from Serge Gakpé, deepened the crisis for Valenciennes, who remain winless and six points adrift of safety in Ligue 1. The result not only exposed the team’s defensive frailties but also ignited tensions off the pitch.
Following the match, a group of around ten frustrated supporters confronted striker Jean-Christophe Bahebeck near the stadium. The 21-year-old, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, has scored just twice in 17 league appearances this season. Fans compared him unfavourably to Majeed Waris, who has netted nine goals since joining the club in January.
The altercation escalated when some supporters accused Bahebeck of lacking commitment, suggesting he was more focused on returning to PSG—where he remains under contract—than helping Valenciennes avoid relegation. One fan reportedly mocked him for preparing to “go back to winning titles” in Paris while Valenciennes fight for survival.
Bahebeck, visibly frustrated, snapped back at the insults and was heard calling one of the fans an “asshole,” further souring the already tense atmosphere.
The incident underscores the mounting pressure on the club, whose hopes of survival are rapidly fading. With just a handful of matches remaining, Valenciennes are in dire need of a turnaround to avoid dropping into Ligue 2.
For FC Nantes, the result marked a resounding return to form. Gakpé was instrumental in the win, as the Canaries tore through a porous Valenciennes defence with ruthless efficiency.
The mood in the two camps could not be more different. While Nantes look to build momentum heading into the season’s final stretch, Valenciennes are grappling with both on-field struggles and off-field discord.
The club now faces a crucial period as they attempt to claw their way out of the relegation zone. Managerial decisions, player morale, and fan sentiment will all play key roles in determining whether the team can salvage its Ligue 1 status.
