The Azuréens welcome Montpellier tonight (8:45 PM), as part of the 27th day of Ligue 1.
After a painful victory over Lorient (0-1) last week, the Gym, deprived of Balotelli, will want to reassure themselves. With three wins in four matches, MHSC arrives at the Allianz Riviera with determination. Can the Héraultais deny the Aiglons a victory that would allow them to catch up to the Monegasque leader?
The Opponent
After navigating troubled waters mid-season, MHSC has found their stride. This renaissance operation is mainly attributed to Boudebouz and Mounié, their two key players in 2017. Remarkable since the start of the season, the Algerian has often kept this team afloat before his teammates joined in. He notably found a reliable attacking partner in Steve Mounié. Already boosted by Frédéric Hantz, the Beninese confirmed his prowess under Gasset’s era, scoring four goals in as many matches. Each goal has been crucial for a club that needs just about ten more points to reach the average points needed for maintenance in L1. With already 10 goals this season, the homegrown player represents the future of this Hérault team. He will obviously be closely watched by the Nice defense.
Montpellier also owes its redemption to a newfound defense. Though he won’t regain his youthful agility, Hilton has found his rhythm. Brilliant in positioning, the Brazilian proves to be the perfect complement to young Czech Lukas Pokorny. Now safe from the relegation zone, Montpellier still lugs around its poor away record (1 win-4 draws-8 losses) but doesn’t intend to play the victim on the Côte d’Azur…
The Absentees
Sent off against Les Merlus last week, Mario Balotelli will be absent. Injured, Ricardio Pereira, Olivier Boscagli, and Alassane Pléa will also not participate. However, the Gym can count on Younès Belhanda, who will reunite with his original club!
The Montpellier squad will remain much like the one that dominated Saint-Etienne (2-1) last matchday.
The Montpellier Squad:
Pionnier, Roussillon, Pokorny, Hilton, Mukiele, Sessegnon, Skhiri, Dolly, Boudebouz, Mbenza, Mounie.
The Nice Squad:
Cardinale, Souquet, Baysse, Dante, Henrique, Seri, Cyprien, Obbadi, Donis, Eysseric, Belhanda.
The Referee
Mr. Frank Schneider will be officiating. He has refereed the Gym twice this season, both victories (Marseille 3-2; Saint-Etienne 0-1). A total of 32 goals have been scored in the last ten matches he’s officiated! The 37-year-old has issued 50 yellow cards in 13 Ligue 1 matches, plus four reds. Discipline will be crucial against Montpellier.
