Montpellier edged past Auxerre with a 3-2 victory at the Stade de la Mosson, thanks to a brace from Nigerian striker Akor Adams. The thrilling contest marked the second Nigerian derby of the Ligue 1 season, with Adams getting the better of compatriot Gabriel Osho. Montpellier, despite a tough start, managed to secure the win and continue their positive momentum.
Auxerre struck first in the 18th minute through Hamed Traorè, but Adams began to find his rhythm for Montpellier. After two earlier offside calls and a missed opportunity at the end of the first half, the Nigerian striker finally broke through in the 65th minute. Akor Adams connected with a Téji Savanier corner to head the ball into the bottom left corner, bringing Montpellier level at 1-1.
A few minutes later, Modibo Sagnan put Montpellier into the lead with a header, only for Auxerre's Ado Onaiwu to equalize once again in the 72nd minute.
Adams’ heroics seals the win
The game seemed to be heading for a stalemate, but Adams had other ideas. In the 75th minute, he latched onto a well-placed through ball from Savanier and coolly slotted the ball past the Auxerre goalkeeper for Montpellier’s decisive third goal. His celebration earned him a yellow card, but the strike proved to be the match-winner.
Adams played the entire 90 minutes and was key to Montpellier’s attack. He scored twice from three shots on target and completed one key pass. He also made 22 touches and achieved a 58% pass accuracy, completing 7 of 12 passes. Though his crossing was less effective, Adams completed one successful dribble and won three of eight ground duels.
With three goals in five Ligue 1 matches this season, Adams continues to establish himself as a crucial figure in Montpellier’s attack.