Ghana striker Abdul Majeed Waris’ solitary goal gave Valenciennes a 1-0 win over Evian TG last Saturday which pulled them to within two points of safety.
His sixth goal of the season since his winter loan signing from Spartak Moscow was registered in the 63rd minute.
Mathieu Dossevi crashed a header at the back post down towards goal; Hansen managed to punch clear, but only as far as Waris, who made no mistake in crashing home.
Evian had their best chance to draw level late on but Nicolas Benezet after picking up possession in the visiting box, blazed over when he had time and space to at least test Novaes in the 78th minute.
The result means Evian are now just two points better off than Valenciennes, who still occupy the third and final relegation place for now.
