The score says a lot about the defensive quality of both teams (OGC Nice 19 – 21 Metz) and the exceptional performances of the goalkeepers, both recording nearly 50% saves (Pierson 14/33, Darleux 15/36).
On one side, Metz, ranked 3rd, the best defense in the LFH championship. On the other, OGC Nice Handball, ranked 6th, which has surprised throughout the season with its feats, especially against the “big” teams.
One might have expected a remake of the last meeting between the two teams which ended in a draw (Metz 23-23 OGC Nice). And it was a close call.
The first half concluded with a score of 10-11. OGC Nice spent time on the attack, alternating tactics, but the Nice players struggled to breach the Lorraine defensive wall. Metz offered a more impactful offensive game, but this was countered by the presence of Cléopâtre Darleux, who made multiple saves. Despite this, the Lorraine team maintained their lead for almost the entire half.
In the first part of the second half, the balance persisted, the score remained tight (14-14 at the 13th minute), and both teams were waiting for their opponent to make a mistake to take the lead. It was on the Nice side that the first blunders appeared. A turnover, a penalty, a missed penalty shot, Metz seized the opportunities and took a considerable lead 6 minutes before the end (16-20).
OGC Nice, true to its reputation, surprised and kept all its supporters on the edge of their seats until the last seconds by closing the gap to a score of 19-20 with 40 seconds left before the final whistle. But Lisceuic ended all hopes by scoring the +2 goal 7 seconds before the end.
The return match will take place on Thursday, May 7th at 8:30 PM at the Metz Arenas and will be broadcast live on Sport+.
Christelle Del Peschio
