Nancy vs. Toulouse

A Pierre-Andre Gignac shot after four minutes was solidly held by home goalkeeper Gennaro Bracigliano, but it would be after 20 minutes before any real action of note began. Gignac would again be the man at the centre of the action, sending a first-time shot spinning toward goal, only to be denied by the foot of the home ‘keeper.

Nancy were not the free-flowing side that they have displayed frequently at times this season, but Julien Feret combined well with Floyd Ayite on 26 minutes to send an effort narrowly over the top.

Franck Tabanou had an effort well punched clear by Bracigliano, but it would be Yohann Pele in the opposite goal, making his debut, who would really impress, spreading himself superbly to deny Florian Marange on the stroke of half-time.

The importance of Gignac to Toulouse was shown in the second half, when he led the line impressively, feasting off mere scraps to threaten on a handful of occasions. A 25-yard drive forced Bracigliano in action just after the break and would again strike meaningfully at goal ten minutes later. Midway through the second half he probably should’ve profited more from Tabanou’s wing play on the left, but hit the bar with a close-range header.

Bocundji Ca passed up a good chance at the back post for ASNL after Djamel Bakar’s good centre, but the match finished explosively as Andre Luiz was sent-off for picking up a second yellow card.