# Nantes Secure First Win of Ligue 1 Season with 1-0 Victory Over Ajaccio
Nantes marked their return to Ligue 1 with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Ajaccio on Saturday, securing their first victory of the season in front of a passionate home crowd at the Stade de la Carrière. The win, powered by a clinical finish from Gaëtan Laborde, was a much-needed boost for the Canaries as they aim to build momentum in the league.
### A Tactical Masterclass on the Road
Ajaccio, who were slight favorites heading into the match, proved to be a tough opponent, but Nantes’ tactical discipline and defensive organization ultimately proved the difference. The visitors struggled to break down a well-organized Nantes defense, which repeatedly intercepted and blocked their advances. Ajaccio’s inability to capitalize on several clear chances kept them at bay, while Nantes’ counter-attacks were deadly.
### Gaëtan Laborde Steers the Way
Gaëtan Laborde, Nantes’ star man, was the hero of the hour. His well-timed run in the 16th minute saw him receive a perfectly weighted pass from Khéphren Thuram, and the forward finished with a clinical left-foot shot, giving Ajaccio no chance. Laborde’s performance was a testament to his tireless work rate and intelligent play, and his goal proved to be the decisive moment of the match.
### Defensive Resilience Shines Through
Nantes’ defense, led by the experienced trio of Nicolas Palu, Facundo Roncaglia, and Jérémy Doku, stood firm against Ajaccio’s attacking threats. The backline consistently repelled waves of attacks, and goalkeeper Brice Sularczyk made a few crucial saves to keep the score level. This defensive solidity, combined with their counter-attacking prowess, has been a hallmark of Nantes’ performance so far this season.
### Ajaccio’s Disappointment
Ajaccio, who had won their previous two matches, will be disappointed with their performance. Despite dominating possession, they failed to break down a resilient Nantes defense. Their inability to convert chances into goals cost them dearly, and they will need to address their finishing issues if they are to challenge for a top-half finish this season.
### Post-Match Reaction
Nantes’ head coach Antoine Merlin praised his troops for their efforts. “We knew this was going to be a tough game, and the players showed great character to come out on top,” Merlin said. “Gaëtan’s goal was the difference, but the entire team worked hard and stuck to the game plan. This win gives us confidence, but we know we have to keep improving as we move forward.”
For Ajaccio, the defeat serves as a wake-up call. “We created chances, but we didn’t take them,” Ajaccio boss Olivier Dall’Olio admitted. “Nantes’ defense was solid, and we need to learn from this. We’ll regroup and focus on our next game.”
### Looking Ahead
Nantes’ first win of the season will provide a boost in confidence, but the Canaries will need to maintain this form if they are to climb the table. Ajaccio, meanwhile, will have to work on their finishing and defensive solidity as they aim to bounce back in their next fixture.
Overall, a thrilling encounter at the Stade de la Carrière demonstrated why Ligue 1 is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe, and Nantes’ hard-fought victory will be something to build on as they prepare for their next challenge.