Sure, last season Nice faced a defeat on their own turf with Piquionne scoring against them early in the game, but this year, a repeat seems unlikely as the St Etienne striker has moved to the neighboring principality of Monaco. Still, caution is needed against the St Etienne team, which appears ripe for another European campaign, something their fans are eagerly hoping for as the team currently holds a solid sixth place before heading to the French Riviera.
For this match, both Nice and St Etienne will have to cope without their suspended players. Cyril Rool (serving his second and final match following his red card against Monaco) and Rod Fanni (3 yellow cards in 10 matches) are out for Nice, as well as St Etienne’s Mouhamadou Dabo, who was sent off in their last game against Nantes. As for the officiating, Mr. Kalt will be the referee, assisted by his linesmen Mr. Galibert and Mr. Cazali.
Another significant obstacle for Nice’s attack will be Jérémie Janot. The St Etienne goalkeeper is a crucial player for his team, and his technical prowess, whether airborne, in coming off his line, or on the goal line, has often tipped the scales in favor of St Etienne. Asked about his fears of playing in Nice’s “cauldron,” Jérémie Janot remains pragmatic, “It’s a lively stadium. It’s all part of the game, provided it doesn’t cross certain limits. A football match should always be a celebration.” Hopefully, the celebration will be in Nice’s favor this Sunday.
Frédéric Antonetti’s men are well aware of the day’s crucial importance, especially since they will know the results of their main competitors fighting against relegation to Ligue 2. Nantes is hosting the second-placed Lens, PSG faces a tough trip to Bordeaux, Troyes meets Nancy in a critical six-pointer, and Sedan will play Lyon on Sunday night to round off the day. Thus, a great opportunity arises for the Nice team, which could further distance themselves from the relegation zone before their own crucial match against Sedan.
Go on, who are the strongest… This time, let’s say the red and blacks!
