# The Ligue 1 Standings: Nantes and Clermont Struggling for Survival

The 2022-2023 Ligue 1 season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, with several teams fighting to avoid relegation. Among these struggling sides, Nantes and Clermont have emerged as key players in the race for survival. Both clubs are currently hovering around the relegation zone, with their fates intertwined as the season progresses.

### Nantes: A Rocky Path to Survival

Nantes, historically one of French football's most respected clubs, has found itself in a tough spot this season. Despite their best efforts, the club has struggled to maintain consistency, particularly in defense. Manager Antoine Kombouaré has been counting on his defense to keep the team in the league, but injuries and inconsistent performances have left gaps that opponents have exploited.

Key players like Gaëtan Laborde and Terem Moffi have been crucial in attack, but their ability to break down defenses has been inconsistent. Nantes' recent form has seen them alternate between wins and losses, leaving fans on edge. A win against a strong side like Marseille earlier this month provided a much-needed boost, but the pressure remains to maintain that momentum.

### Clermont: The Underdog Story

Clermont, a club that recently earned promotion back to Ligue 1, has faced an uphill battle this season. Despite their promotion, the team has found it difficult to adapt to the higher level of competition. Manager Pascal Gallice has relied heavily on his star striker, Alexis Debec, to score goals, but even his contributions haven't been enough to secure wins consistently.

Clermont's defense has been a weak point, with opponents capitalizing on their mistakes on multiple occasions. However, the team has shown flashes of attacking potential, particularly when Debec is on the field. A recent draw against Montpellier and a late winner against Toulouse highlights their resilience, but they remain deeply embroiled in the relegation battle.

### The Battle for Survival

Both Nantes and Clermont are separated by just a few points in the standings, with the latter currently sitting one place above the relegation zone. The next few matches will be critical for both sides. Nantes will face off against high-flying teams like Paris Saint-Germain and Lens in the coming weeks, while Clermont will look to build on their recent performance against Angers.

Experts believe that both clubs will need to make smart signings in the winter transfer window to give their squads a much-needed boost. Nantes may look to strengthen their defense, while Clermont could focus on adding more depth up front.

As the season progresses, the battle between Nantes and Clermont will be a key storyline to watch. Both teams have the potential to pull off stunning results, but the reality is that only one of them can avoid relegation. With the stakes this high, the coming weeks will be crucial for both clubs as they fight to secure their Ligue 1 status.