Waris misses crucial penalty

Ghana striker Abdul Majeed Waris heralded a devastating striking display on his return from a short-term injury with a classy goal for Valenciennes 2-1 home reverse against Olympique Lyonnais in the French Ligue 1 on Sunday afternoon.

The Black Stars front-man cancelled out a Bafetimbi Gomis 29th minute opener for Lyon with a world-class finish in the 66th minute.


But he agonisingly missed a last-gasp penalty to ensure Valenciennes at least managed a point from the game.


Valenciennes’ precarious situation on the Ligue 1 table meant they desperately needed results against the giants but fell behind when French international striker Gomis powered Lyon.


The Reds came close to drawing on level terms thrice before the break with Arthur Masuaku and Waris both missing closely.

With the energetic Spartak Moscow loanee in hot form, Lyon defenders could not relax and certainly got on target and pull even for Valenciennes.


But Jordan Ferri steered Lyon back into the lead just three minutes after Waris’ goal. Valenciennes won a penalty late in the game after Lyon defender Danic conceded a penalty.


When he stepped up to attempt a conversion, he missed and Lyon escaped with victory from the Stade du Hainaut.