Nigeria international Moses Simon has joined an exclusive club of penalty specialists in Ligue 1, becoming one of only three players with a flawless record from the spot this season, Soccernet.ng reports.
Simon netted his third penalty of the campaign in Nantes’ 3-1 home win over Lens at the weekend, keeping his 100% conversion rate intact.
The Super Eagles forward joins OGC Nice’s Gaëtan Laborde and Le Havre’s Abdoulaye Touré as the only players yet to miss a penalty in the French top flight this term.
Laborde leads the trio with four successful penalties from four attempts, while Simon and Touré have each converted three from three, as per the French Ligue 1.
Meanwhile, LOSC Lille striker Jonathan David remains the league’s most prolific penalty taker, having scored six of his seven spot-kicks this season. Olympique Marseille’s Mason Greenwood and Stade Rennes forward Arnaud Kalimuendo are close behind, both netting five times from six attempts.
Simon’s standout display against Lens also earned him a place in the WhoScored.com Ligue 1 Team of the Week.
The Nigerian winger had to pass a late fitness test before the match after a minor injury scare in training. However, he showed no signs of discomfort, delivering a commanding performance to help his team secure a crucial victory in their fight to avoid the drop.
Simon was instrumental in Nantes’ attacking play, scoring their second goal from the penalty spot in the 60th minute—his sixth league goal in 21 appearances this season. He also provided his seventh assist of the campaign, further highlighting his importance to the team.
Louis Leroux had given Nantes the lead in the 36th minute before Moses Simon doubled their advantage. Lens briefly threatened a comeback with a goal from Florian Sotoca, but the home side sealed the win through a late strike from Mostafa Mohamed.
The victory was Nantes’ third home win of the season and lifted them one place in the Ligue 1 standings to 14th, with 24 points from 23 matches.
Moses Simon’s inclusion in the Ligue 1 Team of the Week was well-earned, as he delivered a complete performance in Nantes’ attacking unit.
The former Levante star completed four of his eight dribbles, demonstrating his ability to take on defenders, while also delivering four successful crosses from seven attempts. His creativity shone through as he registered two key passes and created one big chance.
The Nigerian forward recorded 51 touches in the match, completing 18 of his 20 passes at a 90% accuracy rate. Defensively, he contributed with one clearance and won eight of his 14 ground duels, drawing three fouls in the process.
While he did miss a big chance, his overall performance was vital in securing the three points for Nantes.
With 13 goal involvements (six goals, seven assists) in Ligue 1 this season, Simon continues to be a key figure for Nantes as they battle to stay clear of the relegation zone.
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