A few hours before the start of the Riviera derby between OGC Nice and AS Monaco, spirits are rising and the tension is palpable around the Louis-II Stadium.
After his victorious double against Lorient last Sunday at the Allianz Riviera, Nice striker Andy Delort teased his upcoming opponents: “I hope we’ll have a great match on Wednesday, for the club and for the supporters, and that the stadium will be full… Full of Nice supporters, of course. Otherwise, there aren’t often many people there,” setting the tone for the match against Monaco.
During a press conference, Monaco coach Philippe Clement did not miss the opportunity to tease his future opponents in return. “They really fall well in the penalty area,” referring to Nice being the team that has obtained the most penalties this season.
The historical rivalry between the Gym and the club from the Rock is evident. Europe is on everyone’s minds, and both teams have ambitions to compete there. Only 1 point separates the neighboring clubs, who will face each other at 7 PM in a fierce battle to snatch the 3 points and gain an advantage over their opponent with just a few weeks left in the championship—the hostilities are open!
