OGC Nice – AS Saint-Etienne: the ultimate battle for a spot in Ligue 1
This evening marks the climax of the football season, a pivotal moment for both OGC Nice and AS Saint-Etienne. Following a goalless draw (0-0) in the first leg at Geoffroy-Guichard, the two playoff contenders now face their destiny at Nice’s Allianz Riviera, with a coveted spot in Ligue 1 for the upcoming season hanging in the balance.
The contrast between the two legs of this decisive playoff could not be starker. After a somewhat uneventful first encounter between ASSE and OGC Nice, played before a passionate, sold-out crowd at the ‘Chaudron’, Philippe Montanier’s men now aim to secure their return to the top flight. They will challenge the Azuréens in a ‘Grand Stade’ that, regrettably, will remain empty.
This crucial return fixture will be played behind closed doors, a measure taken due to disturbances caused by Nice supporters at the conclusion of the 34th Ligue 1 matchday (Nice-Metz, 0-0). Consequently, the stands are expected to be eerily silent. However, on the pitch, a completely different spectacle is anticipated: a match brimming with pace, intensity, and a feverish determination, reflecting the immense stakes of this Ligue 1 playoff final.
For AS Saint-Etienne, there’s positive news regarding team strength as they prepare to overcome OGC Nice. The Stéphanois coaching staff can count on the return of their New Zealand international, Ben Old, who has recovered from a hamstring injury. Also available is Ghanaian international Augustine Boakye, an indispensable attacking midfielder for ASSE. Both players, having been selected for the World Cup, are included in Philippe Montanier’s squad list. On the opposing side, Claude Puel’s squad also receives a significant boost with the return of Elye Wahi, a star player for the Azuréens.
