From the high of a potential Champions League spot at the season’s start to the dread of a relegation battle at the finish, OGC Nice’s campaign has been a rollercoaster. This Friday’s return leg against AS Saint-Étienne (0-0 after the first leg) at 20:45 CEST could decide whether the club, a four-time French champion, plunges into Ligue 2 for the first time in 24 years. It’s a make-or-break moment, and one the club could ill afford to face amid such turmoil.

Harsh measures ahead of a decisive match

Two weeks after pitch invasions at the final whistle of the 0-0 draw against FC Metz caused €600,000 in damage, the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture has taken unprecedented steps: supporters are barred from the stadium and surrounding areas, including training facilities. While such measures are common for away games, they are rare at home. The decision may be a prudent one, especially given the online threats directed at defender Ali Abdi following his sudden departure for international duty.

Ali Abdi’s dilemma

The Tunisian left-back’s absence has overshadowed preparations. Caught between Nice’s need to retain all key players for these final two matches and Tunisia’s relentless pressure to include him in their squad—going so far as to book three flights for him since Saturday—Abdi ultimately chose to travel. His stated goal was to resolve visa issues for a potential move to the United States. While the club had explored solutions to allow him to meet his administrative obligations without missing the playoff, his entourage argued that his absence jeopardized his World Cup hopes (June 11–July 19). By evening, the club confirmed that Abdi was «determined to return and support the team on Friday night».

The weight on Elye Wahi’s shoulders

With Hicham Boudaoui also sidelined (concussion protocol), Elye Wahi stands out as a key figure. Suspended midweek and remaining on the French Riviera to optimize his recovery, the Ivorian striker is fresh and well-prepared. He has meticulously studied AS Saint-Étienne’s defensive structure with his personal staff, determined to leave a mark in what will likely be his final match for Nice. A message from a prominent ultra leader after the Coupe de France final loss has resonated with him: «Save us, we’re counting on you.» In this context, Wahi could well be the wildcard that tips the scales.