Nantes fought back from two goals down to beat Metz in extra time and secure a place in the Coupe de la Ligue quarter-finals this evening.
The best chance of a largely quiet first half came when Vincent Bessat's free kick came within inches of putting the home side in front, but drifted just wide.
Nantes fell behind on the hour mark after Juan Falcon's effort found a way through keeper Remy Riou.
The hosts looked to respond, bringing on Ismael Bangoura in a bid to get back on terms.
Metz went further ahead on 62 minutes after Yeni N'Gbakoto delivered a pinpoint ball for Cheick Doukoure to find the back of the net.
Les Canaris set up a grandstand finish when Venezuelan international Oswaldo Vizcarrondo pulled a goal back for the hosts.
Nantes were then awarded a penalty after Gaetan Bussmann fouled Serge Gakpe and was given red card for the challenge.
Gakpe then stepped up to slot his spot kick beyond the reach of Anthony Mfa Mezui in the Metz goal.
The visitors were able to force extra time, but Nantes found a way through in the first period as Johan Audel gave Les Canaris a crucial lead.
Two minutes from time, Bangoura made sure of victory to put Nantes into the last eight.
