This Sunday, the Gym hosted Clermont as part of the 23rd day of Ligue 1. At the end of an average match, the Aiglons recorded a fourth consecutive game without a victory in Ligue 1 (0-0).
Finding their way back to victory was the afternoon’s objective for the Niçois. At Allianz Riviera, the Gym received Clermont, 18th and at the bottom of the league. On paper, the Aiglons seemed to be the favorites. But OGC Nice has never managed to defeat Clermont at home since the Auvergnats’ return to the league in 2021.
For this encounter, Francesco Farioli set up his traditional 4-3-3. Dante returned to central defense. Alexis Claude Maurice and Hicham Boudaoui were paired with Khephren Thuram in midfield. Finally, the attacking trio was composed of Jérémie Boga, Evan Guessand, and Mohamed Ali Cho.
Marcin Bulka saves another penalty
In the first half, the Aiglons dominated the game. But the Gym struggled against the deep and compact Auvergne defense. The Niçois had difficulty with their finishing or lacked luck in front of the goal. Just like a shot by Claude-Maurice that grazed Mory Diaw’s post.
Clermont finished the first half better. And on a quick counterattack, Nicholson went down after a contact with Dante. After long minutes of stoppage and a VAR review, the match referee, Mr. Ben El Hadj, awarded a penalty to the Auvergnats.
The Jamaican forward wanted to take justice against Marcin Bulka. But the Clermont striker saw his shot saved by the Polish goalkeeper. The penalty specialist made his fifth save of the season in this exercise.
A fairly dull second half
The Clermont players returned with better intentions. The Auvergnats maintained more possession of the ball. OGC Nice could not manage to be dangerous with its chances, like Evan Guessand.
Having entered during the match, Terem Moffi was repeatedly thwarted by Mory Diaw, Clermont’s goalkeeper. Fortunately, Auvergnat striker Nicholson was no more successful. Alone at the penalty spot, the forward shot wide of Marcin Bulka’s goal.
The next match is next Sunday, March 3rd, for the Gym. OGC Nice will travel to Toulouse for the 24th day of Ligue 1. Kick-off is at 1 p.m. at the Stadium.
