Nantes have beaten Auxerre in their Coupe de la Ligue round-of-16 match.
Michel der Zakarian's side had the first attack of the contest, but Ismael Bangoura's shot was blocked by a defender.
© AFP
The home side's impressive start continued as Fernando Aristeguieta twice went close, but Auxerre showed that they were dangerous going forward as Frederic Sammaritano hammered wide.
Banel Nicolita perhaps should have done better when he broke free of the defence, before striking his shot wide of the post.
Bangoura again went close near the end of the first half, as did Thomas Monconduit for the away side. Further chances were created by both sides, and the opening goal finally came with just 15 minutes remaining when Aristeguieta slotted in.
Souleymane Sawadogo had a chance to equalise immediately after, but he took too long and the home defence were able to get back and block his shot.
Gary Peters
