With Nantes and Metz already confirmed as direct Ligue 2 dropouts, the focus shifted to determining which team would finish 16th in Ligue 1 and face a playoff against Saint-Étienne. Nice, occupying that position before the final matchday, failed to escape it despite a home clash against the league’s bottom side.

The Aiglons could not capitalize on a golden opportunity to claim all three points against Metz, settling for a goalless draw in a lackluster performance. The match’s dullness nearly turned into a defeat had it not been for a heroic display by Metz goalkeeper Yéhvann Diouf. Disgruntled Nice supporters later invaded the Allianz Riviera pitch, adding further drama to an already tense afternoon.

Nice’s survival now hinges on two playoff matches against Saint-Étienne. The first leg will be played in Saint-Étienne on May 26, with the return fixture taking place in Nice on May 29. The playoff comes just days after Nice’s Coupe de France final clash against Lens at the Stade de France on May 22.

Sinayoko shines as Auxerre and Le Havre secure Ligue 1 survival

Before Sunday’s final matchday, Nice held 31 points, tied with Auxerre in 15th but one point behind Le Havre in 14th. Both rivals faced their own battles away from home, delivering standout performances to secure crucial wins.

Auxerre pulled off a remarkable upset by defeating Lille 2-0, with Lassine Sinayoko emerging as the match hero. The Ivorian forward scored twice (32nd and 90th minutes), his 11th and 12th goals of the season in Ligue 1, to secure a famous victory for Christophe Pelissier’s side.

Simultaneously, Le Havre delivered a masterclass at Lorient, emerging 2-0 victors. The Merlus’ defense benefited from an own goal by Lorient’s Abdoulaye Faye (33rd minute), while Issa Soumaré doubled the lead (62nd minute). Lorient’s Bamba Dieng had an opportunity to pull one back from the penalty spot in the 45th+5 minute but saw his effort saved.