The Gym was defeated 2-0 yesterday afternoon on the pitch at Caen. A first loss in 5 matches for Claude Puel’s men, mainly due to a glaring lack of efficiency in front of goal. A direct consequence in the standings as Nice drops to 4th place, three points behind Monaco, in second place.
Since the beginning of the season, the Niรงois have made it a habit of taking charge of the game. And yesterday’s match did not deviate from the rule.
The Aiglons hold the ball and launch their first attack as early as the 5th minute. A beautiful exchange in the midfield between Germain and Ben Arfa allows Pied to deliver a good low cross. Unfortunately, it only finds a Caen defender on its path.
Even though Nice has ball possession, there is a sense of nervousness in the midfield. The trio of Seri, Koziello, and Mendy does not display the calm and control of previous matches. It’s Mendy, with a poor clearance, that allows Julien Fรฉret to send Rodelin to deceive Cardinale with a side-footed shot (12″). 1-0 to Caen.
Immediately afterward, it is now his teammate Seri who loses the ball in the midfield. Fรฉret once again seizes the opportunity to set Delort up. The Caen striker dribbles past Cardinale, but his shot is then blocked by Le Marchand. A warning without consequence.
But five minutes before the break, the Azureans crack again. Ntibazonkiza intercepts a ball and speeds towards the goal like a rocket. He is illegally stopped by Mendy in the area. Penalty for Caen, converted by Delort (40″).
The Vercoutre Show
In the second half, the Niรงois attackers face an excellent Rรฉmy Vercoutre. Solid on his line and authoritative in his outings, the Norman goalkeeper frustrates Caddy, Germain, and Seri in turn.
Despite holding the ball yesterday (65% possession), the Niรงois lacked efficiency in the final move. They will need to correct this on Wednesday evening at home against Toulouse.
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