Africans In France: Ligue 1 Round 12

Valenciennes' Fahid Ben Khalfallah (Tunisia) and Bobo Balde (Guinea) were absolutely essential in their fine triumph over Stade Rennais on Sunday. The Tunisian was involved heavily in many of his side’s moves down the right hand side. As well as scoring the second, Ben Khalfallah also assisted Balde’s opener.

A starter himself for the first time since his arrival at VA on a free transfer just a couple of weeks ago, the man nicknamed ‘the Rock of Guinea’ has proven that these few months of inactivity have not weakened his defensive qualities. He superbly extinguished compatriot Ismael Bangoura.

Cameroonian Nicolas Nkoulou (Monaco) is earning his stripes. With a perfect ability to read the game, the quality of his placement has rarely been faulted this season.

Against Bordeaux, the young Indomitable Lion was a real sentinel in the midfield. His long frame was dominating enough to prompt French internationals Yoann Gourcuff and Alou Diarra to speak highly of him. Although Monaco were beaten by the champions, they were still able to hold their heads high, and Nkoulou was one of their best performers.

Auxerre's fifth consecutive league win came against Montpelier. It seemed like it was all about Ireneusz Jelen, but Morocco's Kamel Chafni kept the game flowing at a fine tempo. The AJA midfielder, who started life a striker, gave a good account of himself in the 2-1 victory.

In Nancy's 2-1 away success against Boulogne, Senegalese attacker Issiar Dia caused issues to the home defence because of his frightening acceleration. He showed great opportunistic ability to sweep home the opening goal. Although he missed a few chances thereafter, he remained a threat throughout the remainder of the match.

Paris Saint-Germain playmaker Stephane Sessegnon (Benin) has been one of the best players in the Ligue 1 for each of the last two seasons, but his aggression sometimes prevented him from showcasing his talents.

The midfielder, repositioned axially in PSG’s 4-2-3-1 formation, offered many passes to his team-mates. His final delivery would not always be successful, but he earned a great deal of praise, which was not necessarily forthcoming when he found himself stuck out on the left previously.

Massaër Ndiaye, Goal.com