French-Ghanaian forward Stredair Appuah was on target for Valenciennes in a spirited but ultimately unsuccessful 4-3 loss to newly crowned champions Nancy on Friday evening, in what was the team’s final home match of the season.

Despite the defeat, Appuah’s performance stood out. The 19-year-old striker played the full 90 minutes and netted a composed equaliser in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a loose ball after Boutoutaou’s sublime free-kick had pulled one back for the hosts. Appuah’s quick reactions and attacking movement injected life into Valenciennes’ fightback, following a nightmare start that saw Dabasse score twice for Nancy in the 16th and 19th minutes.

The second half, however, belonged to the champions. Bokangu put Nancy ahead again in the 56th minute, and Gomel extended their lead in the 75th. A late goal from Kouakou—his first in professional football—reduced the deficit but couldn’t prevent a seventh consecutive winless game for Valenciennes.

Now sitting 10th in the Championnat National standings, VAFC will wrap up their campaign away to Aubagne. Despite the team’s struggles, Appuah has shown promise with 3 goals in 13 league appearances—a bright spark in a difficult season.