Lyon rise to fourth spot in Ligue 1 after defeating Brest

Brazilian player Abner Vinicius netted the decisive goal that helped Lyon secure a spot in the Ligue 1 top four thanks to a 2-1 win against Brest who were down to 10 players on Sunday.

Lyon capitalised on Lille's defeat to Paris Saint-Germain from Friday to surpass the team from the north in the standings.

The side managed by Paulo Fonseca sits two points off third-placed Marseille yet 10 points behind unexpected frontrunners Lens who lead by one point over title holders PSG.

Brest's Romain Del Castillo received a red card in the 19th minute following a rough challenge on Nicolas Tagliafico.

It took Lyon until just four minutes shy of the break to make their numerical edge count when Pavel Sulc slotted home an excellent effort from a narrow position having evaded Brest keeper Gregoire Coudert.

Abner made it two goals to nil during stoppage time of the opening period with a powerful shot from the edge of the box following a setup from fellow Brazilian Endrick on his first league appearance after arriving on loan from Real Madrid.

Brest managed a late response via Junior Dina Ebimbe but Lyon saw out the game.

In an earlier match Paris FC relieved some pressure from the drop zone when substitute Luca Koleosho's strike clinched a vital 2-1 success against bottom feeders Nantes.

The team from the capital advanced to 13th position now five points above Nantes who find themselves in the relegation play-off position.

Gary O'Neil marked his debut as Strasbourg manager with a 2-1 triumph over Metz while Rennes in sixth drew 1-1 at home to Le Havre.