# Ajaccio and Clermont Draw 1-1 with Increased Relegation Pressure in Ligue 1 Round 35
In a thrilling match of Ligue 1 Round 35, Ajaccio and Clermont-Ferrand drew 1-1, delivering a nail-biting encounter that has intensified the relegation battle for both sides. With the season winding down, the result has added significant pressure on both teams as they aim to secure their Ligue 1 status.
The match began with high stakes, as Ajaccio and Clermont-Ferrand find themselves in a fierce battle to avoid dropping out of France's top-tier league. Ajaccio, already struggling near the bottom of the table, entered the game knowing a loss would heap more pressure on their survival hopes. Clermont-Ferrand, while slightly better positioned, are also under significant threat of relegation, with just a few points separating them from the drop zone.
The game itself was a tale of two halves. Ajaccio struck first in the 15th minute when a well-executed counter-attack led by Nano, their Senegalese forward, resulted in a clinical finish. The goal put Ajaccio ahead, but the lead lasted only 20 minutes. Clermont-Ferrand responded with a series of attacks, and in the 35th minute, they leveled the score through their influential striker Steve Mounie, who capitalized on a defensive error to slot the ball into the net.
The second half was a rollercoaster of emotions. Both teams created chances, but neither could find a winner. Ajaccio's defense, already vulnerable, came under intense pressure, while Clermont-Ferrand's attack continued to probe for a decisive goal. Despite their efforts, neither side could break the deadlock, and the match ended in a draw.
The result has left both teams in a precarious position. Ajaccio, who now sit 18th in the table, are inching closer to the relegation zone, and a draw like this may not be enough to save them. Clermont-Ferrand, on the other hand, are 16th but remain in a tricky spot as they aim to secure their place in Ligue 1 for next season.
With just a few rounds remaining, both clubs will need to dig deep and produce strong performances to avoid the drop. Ajaccio, in particular, must improve their defensive solidity, while Clermont-Ferrand will rely on their experience and fighting spirit to pull through.
This match has underscored the intensity of the relegation battle, and both Ajaccio and Clermont-Ferrand have their work cut out if they want to survive the relegation playoff or secure a better result in the upcoming fixtures. The coming weeks will be critical for both sides as they seek to write their own stories in the 2022-2023 Ligue 1 season.