Brest held as Anthony Lopes delivers masterclass for Nantes

The Stade Francis-Le Blé witnessed a gripping stalemate on Saturday evening as Brest were held by Nantes, largely thanks to an inspired Anthony Lopes, who turned in a vintage display between the posts.

Lopes steals the show

From start to finish, the Portuguese goalkeeper was the story. Ludovic Ajorque, Pathé Mboup, and Junior Dina Ebimbe all forced top-class stops from Lopes, who ended the evening with five decisive saves and a clean sheet earned almost single-handedly.

His reflex save to deny Ajorque’s half-volley in stoppage time was the highlight of a performance that will be remembered in Nantes’ season.

Brest dominate but lack cutting edge

Despite missing Romain Del Castillo and Rémy Labeau-Lascary, Brest created the better chances throughout. Eric Roy’s side controlled possession (51%) and registered five shots on target but couldn’t find a way past the inspired Lopes.

New signing Junior Dina Ebimbe showed flashes of promise on his first start, while Doumbia’s energy down the left caused constant problems without reward.

Nantes cling on

For Luis Castro’s side, who arrived in Brittany sitting 16th, this result offers relief rather than satisfaction. The Canaries were largely pinned back and failed to test Brest keeper Radoslaw Majecki, but their resilience — anchored by Kelvin Amian and Chidozie Awaziem — and the brilliance of Lopes ensured a valuable away point.

The draw keeps Brest in the top half of the Ligue 1 McDonald's table, still unbeaten at home against Nantes since May 2021. Nantes remain just above the relegation play-off spot but can take heart from their defensive resolve.

THE STAT: no shots, no goals

FC Nantes failed to attempt a shot on target in this game, it's the first time they failed to attempt a shot on target in a game in the Ligue 1 McDonald's since facing PSG on 17th August 2025.

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