The Ligue Butagaz Énergie of Handball is back. For their first match of the year, the players of OGC Nice handball triumphed over Toulon in the derby.
After only a week of collective training, due to the international break, the players of OGC Nice handball were back on the field. This Sunday afternoon, Sébastien Mizoule’s players faced the Toulon team for a derby marked by financial issues in the Var club.
The Nice defense is well organized, notably thanks to the good work of Hanna Ahlén, and poses difficulties for the Toulon attackers. On the other side, the Azuriennes struggled against the goalkeeper Zazie Samzun, who made multiple saves against the team’s two best scorers, Marie-Hélène Sajka and Marine Dupuis. The beginning of the match was very tight, and goals were scarce: 3-3 after ten minutes of play.
It was ultimately the Nice back line that made the difference and took control of the game. Several turnovers allowed the visitors to take a three-goal lead. By halftime, OGC Nice handball maintained their lead thanks to the good comeback by Marie Sajka (12-15). Nice dominated but couldn’t widen the gap in the score.
Hanna Ahlén shows the way
The start of the second half was similar to the first period. Both teams neutralized each other in defense. Only the back Hanna Ahlén managed to leverage her power in attack. The change of goalkeeper was also beneficial as Cécilia Errin, who replaced Marija Colic, gradually warmed up and allowed the Nice players to count up to a seven-goal lead.
Even without Marie Sajka, who was rested for a good part of the match, the Maralpines were in control. Although Toulon managed to reduce the gap in the middle of the second period, it remained too significant. Marie Fall, back from the Euros, also showcased her skills, as did the ever-reliable Ehsan Abdelmalek. Nice ultimately won (26-30) in the derby.
A slow start, but a collective performance that made the difference. In the rankings, OGC Nice handball remains third in the league, ahead of Plan-de-Cuques on equal points.
For their next match, the Azuriennes are expected at the Charles Ehrmann Sports Hall for the reception of Sambre Avesnois. Kick-off at 8 PM.
