Ethan Laidlaw's second-half penalty proved to be the difference between the sides as the Hibees ran out 1-0 winners in the UEFA Youth League Second Round tie (first-leg).
The goal gives the Hibees a slender lead ahead going into the return leg which takes place in France next week.
Speaking to Hibs TV after the game, the striker admitted he was delighted with the result.
"I’m buzzing to be honest. It was a tough game out there tonight. Everybody knew how good a side Nantes would be and they showed their style tonight.
"At the end of the day, in terms of the run of chances – we could’ve had three or four goals tonight. But, if you gave us a 1-0 lead to go to France you would’ve taken it."
Ethan won the penalty after he was brought down following a powerful run in the box. The striker had the confidence and composure to step up and take the spot-kick slotting home with ease to give his side the lead.
"In the second half, we reorganised ourselves and we were the better team and had the better chances.
“For the goal I picked it up on the left-hand side. I got a good break of the ball and got in behind their right wing-back. When I open up my long legs I feel I can take on anyone, I skipped past one of their players and then the challenge came in.
“There were a few contenders to take the penalty but I always backed myself – thankfully I put it in the back of the net."
Just under 3000 supporters watch the wee Hibees triumph at Easter Road and Ethan was full of praise for the Hibs faithful.
"The supporters gave us that extra edge tonight. When you play in front of that number of fans it makes such a difference. The guys behind the goal were outstanding again and certainly lifted us.
“We are all buzzing for the second-leg. The lads have put in a whole year of work into getting to this position and we just want to go as far as we can in the competition."
