Surprised right from the start by the newly-promoted Reims, the Aiglons tried in vain to catch up on the score, despite a clear desire to push forward. The arrival of one or even two strikers is becoming urgent.
Conceding a goal and chasing the game against a hyper-compact block. The trap is well-known, and once triggered, it takes a lot of effort to escape. Like in a bad story, the Aiglons made things difficult for themselves right in the 2nd minute, when they gave too much space to the Reims team, who did not hesitate to turn that freedom into an advantage, and then that advantage into success.
On a play reversal, the lively Doumbia cut in from the left towards the center, went past two Azuréens, and struck hard at the near post. Cardinale, back in the starting eleven, could only brush the ball.
Placed in a 4-3-3 formation during defensive phases, then switching to 3-6-1 with wingers sticking to the wings during offensive moves, Patrick Vieira’s players ensured possession, tried to move the two Champagne defensive lines… but ran into a concentrated group in the center of the play.
After 45 minutes, the Red and Black team did not create any clear chances. Lees-Melou’s shot was deflected and went far away from the goal (9’); Atal’s burst forward, passing three opponents, ended with a save by Mendy (18’); Cyprien’s shot lacked precision (27’); Danilo’s header lacked power (37’). Tameze’s header went far from the goalposts (38’) just before the break.
While they did not tremble, the newly-promoted team, placed in a 4-2-3-1 formation, stuck to their game plan and, in reverse, gave some cold sweats to the home team during the first 45 minutes. A marvelous short play led to another powerful strike by Doumbia, well punched over the bar by Cardinale (29’). Shortly after, Chavarria, generous at the front, volleyed a pass without managing to find the target (30’).
A REVOLUTION BUT NO EFFICIENCY
Saint-Maximin signaled the fightback right at the start of the second half. Often playing at the front, the number 7 launched a missile as soon as he returned to the field. Mendy dived, let the ball go, then pulled off a second save “on the rebound” from an attempt by Srarfi, who unfortunately got in the way with Cyprien when trying to shoot (50’).
This first big opportunity set the tone for the Nice team. This momentum confirmed itself as the minutes ticked by. Coach Vieira brought in Lamine Diaby-Fadiga, a pure number 9, in the front line at the hour mark, which allowed “ASM” to return to the left wing. The effect was immediate: Saint-Max’ found Cyprien, who delivered a delightful pass to Lees-Melou, whose perfect finish was annulled by an offside position (61’).
The men from the County showed more and more conviction and rhythm in all their movements. Their visitors did not leave their half much more. Minutes ticked by, stretching the lines, testing the bodies. Gym pushed, but Lees-Melou was too short to put away Atal’s effort (82’), and the die was ultimately cast.
The Gym finishes this first day weighed down by their start. With, inevitably, some regrets and the desire to get back on the pitch as quickly as possible to start their season.
PATRICK VIEIRA’S REACTION
What was important tonight was to create situations. Success wasn’t there, but perhaps it will be in the next match. We had opportunities. We lacked success on 2-3 occasions. We didn’t have enough players capable of attacking spaces. We also lacked presence in the box; we need to improve our positioning. But it’s a shame because the players deserved at least a draw. We must continue to work. The idea, the structure was there. After that, we need to find the right positioning. We saw very good things but we still have work to do and we will get back to it starting Monday. Strengthening the technical and tactical message we have been implementing since resuming. Believing in what we do. I have clear ideas, I will not change course following tonight’s match. We have the players to play this way.
DANTE’S REACTION
It’s a shame to concede a goal so early. We are all disappointed with the result, but in terms of the performance, the team gave everything. In the first half, we should have dared a bit more. The second half was good, we accomplished everything the coach asked of us. We pressed high, regained possession, created chances…
