Montpellier’s defense failed at a crucial moment, with a missed penalty by Mendy and Fayad’s expulsion: Zoumana Camara’s team fell to Clermont at La Mosson (1-2) on Saturday, May 2, and bid farewell to the play-off.
A telling sign. The best defense in Ligue 2 faltered at the wrong time. Their anchor point, they conceded two goals and dashed Montpellier’s chances in the final sprint. The defeat also spoiled the 34th anniversary celebration of the Butte-Paillade Ultras, as well as their last hopes of reaching the play-off.
In addition to this unexpected breakdown, Khalil Fayad was sent off (51st minute) and striker Alexandre Mendy missed a penalty (62nd minute). All indicators of a missed opportunity.
Ngapandouetnbu (5): In his 30th match, the goalkeeper let in two goals. He was caught off guard twice, showing little reflex. He made a superb save against Bamba (77th minute).
Tchato (7): The best player for Montpellier. With his 100th match, he delivered a second consecutive decisive pass. Alongside Pays, he animated the game on the right side, being very influential with his crosses and actions. He missed the equalizer from a Savanier pass (79th minute).
Laporte (4): Against his former club, he struggled and was dominated by Diedhiou, particularly on Clermont’s first goal (26th minute). However, he was comfortable in building from the back.
Mouanga (4): Caught off guard by Hunou’s header (45 + 2nd minute) for Clermont’s second goal. This mistake overshadowed his physical presence, especially his run towards the “Piazza” (19th minute).
Sainte-Luce (4): In his 12th consecutive start, he was not very visible and was passive on Clermont’s second goal. He made a good defensive play against Diedhiou but was quiet in the game alongside Molebe.
Chennahi (6): Outstanding once again. Positioned as a sweeper, he met the physical challenge and effectively stopped Clermont’s counterattacks. He initiated good movements, shifting Tchato for Hérault’s first goal. Always playing forward with great enthusiasm.
Fayad (2): A starter due to Guéguin’s injury, he was active but lacked inspiration in his decisions. He was eventually sent off in the 51st minute for a second yellow card for a foul on Sow.
Mbuku (4): Despite two good shots (11th, 14th minute), he was not very involved in the game. He was passive against full-back Coulibaly, who provided the crucial cross for Clermont’s second goal. He was substituted by Savanier in the final quarter, posing a threat until the end.
Pays (5): Showing good chemistry with Tchato, the game shifted to the right side. He delivered some good crosses but lacked accuracy on a few occasions. He drew the foul that led to a penalty (60th minute) and put in a solid effort throughout.
A. Mendy (5): Scored his 12th goal of the season with a diving header (22nd minute), acted as a focal point with his lay-offs, but missed the equalizing penalty (62nd minute) with his team reduced to ten men.
Molebe (3): In his fifth consecutive start, he did very little. He poorly directed a shot towards the second post (30th minute) which was saved by the goalkeeper. Symbolic of his incomplete performance. He was caught out by full-back Coulibaly for Clermont’s second goal and was rightfully replaced by Issoufou (56th minute).
