Algerian playmaker Himad Abdelli drives Angers to dominant derby victory over Nantes

Himad Abdelli delivered a commanding performance as Angers dismantled Nantes 4-1 in the Loire derby, driving his side to a decisive victory with authority, intelligence and attacking precision.

Abdelli set the tone early and imposed himself as Angers’ technical leader from the opening exchanges.

He opened the scoring in the 17th minute when he calmly dispatched a penalty after Belkhdim drew a foul inside the area.

The goal gave Angers control and confidence, and Abdelli immediately took charge of the rhythm, demanding the ball and dictating play from midfield.

Throughout the first half, Abdelli combined tireless ball recovery with sharp distribution. He linked defence and attack seamlessly, constantly offering solutions and pushing Angers forward.

Nantes struggled to contain his movement and vision as Angers pressed higher and played with growing assurance.

The second half showcased Abdelli’s influence even more clearly. He sparked a decisive counter-attack by clearing danger from inside his own area with a firm header.

The ball reached Louis Mouton, who carried it more than fifty metres before releasing Sidiki Cherif, who finished clinically to double Angers’ advantage in the 60th minute.

Abdelli continued to control proceedings and refused to slow the tempo. He created space, directed teammates and maintained pressure on the Nantes defence.

He came close to scoring again with a low effort that drifted narrowly wide. Moments later, he struck a powerful shot that forced goalkeeper Antony Lopes into a reflex save.

Harouna reacted first to the rebound and converted to make it 3-0 in the 85th minute.

Shortly after Abdelli left the pitch to warm applause, Angers added a fourth goal to complete an emphatic display and underline their dominance on the night.

Nantes managed a consolation goal, but it failed to alter the narrative of a match firmly controlled by the home side.

Angers captain Harris Belkebla led by example with discipline and authority, while Yassine Benhattab started for Nantes and battled throughout a difficult evening.

However, the contest belonged to Abdelli, whose leadership, creativity and relentless energy defined the derby and powered Angers to a memorable triumph.

Himad Abdelli VS Nantes.

MOTM. 🔥🇩🇿

RDV demain 15H pour la liste. 📋pic.twitter.com/4tD96Oklsz

— 𝗠𝗘𝗥𝗖𝗨. 🔍🇩🇿 (@CompsMercu) December 12, 2025