Moses Simon’s Nantes will host Lille at Stade de la Beaujoire-Louis Fonteneau on March 15, 2025, in a crucial Ligue 1 showdown.
The home side finds themselves in a precarious position, sitting 14th in the standings with just 24 points, while Lille, aiming for a European place, occupies 5th with 44 points.
Simon, a key figure for the Yellow Canaries, will be under the spotlight as he looks to inspire his struggling team to a much-needed victory.
The Super Eagles winger was left out of the starting XI last weekend but made a late appearance in the 1-0 home loss to Strasbourg. It is also a Nigerian derby as Super Eagles hopeful Chuba Akpom, who plays for Lille, will be hoping to dunk on Simon's Nantes
Correct Score Prediction: Nantes vs Lille
Given Nantes' struggles at home and Lille’s underwhelming away form, a closely contested game is expected. Nantes have managed only three home wins all season, while Lille has won just once in their last six away games.
The hosts will likely aim for a cautious approach, relying on Moses Simon’s attacking flair to create chances. However, Lille’s superior quality in midfield and attack should give them the edge.
Prediction: Nantes 1-2 Lille
Moses Simon’s influence amid transfer speculation
The Jos-born winger has been one of Nantes' best players this season, featuring in 23 Ligue 1 matches (22 as a starter).
He has six goals and seven assists, playing a crucial role in nearly half of Nantes' league goals. His ability to stretch defenses with pace and creativity has been vital for the club, even in their struggles.
Despite his contributions, Nantes’ form remains a concern, with just one win in their last five games. With 1,841 minutes played this season, Moses Simon is among Ligue 1’s most influential wingers, sitting joint-third in the assists chart, two behind leader Rayan Cherki of Lyon.
The 29-year-old Nigerian has been linked with a summer move away from Nantes. Reports suggest that Serie A side AS Roma are keen on securing his services, while Ligue 1 giants Lyon and Marseille are also monitoring his situation.
If he features this weekend, it will mark his 390th club career appearance. Should he find the net, it would be his 75th club goal, an impressive milestone for the Nigerian international.
