Nantes hit back to stop Spartak
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Nicolas Ouedec scored two opportunist goals yesterday to give Nantes a 2-2 draw with Spartak Moscow in their European Cup quarter-final second leg and see them through to the semi-finals 4-2 on aggregate.
Ouedec struck in the 63rd and 85th minutes to wipe out two outstanding first-half goals by the Spartak captain, Yuri Nikiforov, which had brought the Russians firmly back into contention after they they lost the first leg 2-0 in France two weeks ago.
The French international striker, wearing gloves because of the cold, scored his first goal by running on to a long pass which evaded two Spartak defenders and slipping the ball calmly past the Spartak goalkeeper, Ruslan Nigmatullin.
Although Spartak dominated possession, even after conceding a goal, Ouedec had the last word with a left-footed drive from close range which gave Nigmatullin no chance.
The defeat marks the end of the road for a fine Spartak side, who have already surrendered their Russian League title to Spartak Vladikavkaz. After qualifying for the quarter-finals several top players left the club, including Sergei Yuran and Vassili Kulkov, who are both now at Millwall.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments