Nigerian midfielders Regina Otu and Amanda Mbadi were a force to be reckoned with as their club, Saint Etienne Féminines, defeated Chiamaka Nandozie’s Paris FC Féminines in the 20th matchday of the 2023-24 French Division 1 Féminine league.

The crucial victory keeps Saint Etienne’s hopes for a top-four finish alive.

Saint Etienne dominated from the start, grabbing an early lead in the 4th minute thanks to Alexandria Lamontagne’s well-placed finish after a beautiful assist from Chloe Tapia. Otu, playing a key role as a defensive midfielder, shut down the Paris FC midfield alongside Solene Champagnac in a double defensive midfield formation. Their combined efforts effectively denied space to the opposing midfielders, stifling their attacks.

While Amanda Mbadi, playing behind their main striker Alex Lamontagne was a handful for Paris FC defenders before being substituted in the 74th minute.

This victory is a major boost for Saint Etienne Féminines, currently sitting in 7th position, as the race for the top four intensifies.

Looking ahead, Regina Otu, Amanda Mbadi and their Saint Etienne Féminines teammates will face a stern test in their upcoming fixture against Montpellier, currently placed 6th in the league standings. With momentum on their side, Saint Etienne will be eager to capitalize on their recent success and secure all three points in what promises to be another exhilarating encounter on the road.