At the end of an eventful match where the Gym experienced two completely different halves, the Azuréens won 3-1 at Geoffroy-Guichard, perfectly starting their series of crucial matches.
At kickoff, Patrick Vieira decided to change the usual playing system he uses. Thus, in front of Benitez, there was a back three composed of Dante, Bambu, and N’Soki. They were supported by Lotomba and Kamara on the wings. In midfield, Schneiderlin was positioned as the defensive midfielder, accompanied by Thuram and Lees-Melou. Finally, in attack, there were Rony Lopes and Amine Gouiri.
The first half was largely controlled by Nice, who adapted very quickly to their new playing system. As a result, the Stéphanois players found very little space in the Nice defense, and Benitez was never really troubled. Additionally, in attack, the Nice duo of Lopes and Gouiri connected well, creating many chances, notably thanks to the defensive errors of the Greens.
Ultimately, the Red and Blacks quickly took the lead on the scoreboard with a goal from Lees-Melou, who, alone at the penalty spot, volleyed home a ball deflected by the Stéphanois goalkeeper.
The rest of the first half was perfectly managed by Nice, who even managed to double their lead half an hour into the game. Once again, it was Amine Gouiri who confirmed his excellent start to the season with another goal, courtesy of a monumental error by Jessy Moulin.
The Awakening of the Greens
In the second half, the Stéphanois made several changes and appeared much more dangerous. Nice were then forced to retreat and were exposed to the Greens’ attacks.
Adil Aouchiche, the young Stéphanois player, managed to score a goal for his team after a good setup by Hamouma in the 57th minute.
The rest of the second half was tense for Nice, who became frustrated and missed a large number of clearances.
Nevertheless, Myziane Maolida, who came on 20 minutes before the end, relieved his team with a strike from the penalty spot following a deflected shot from Dan Ndoye.
Nice won 3-1 at Geoffroy-Guichard and temporarily moved up to fifth place, waiting for the result of the northern derby between Lille and Lens, which was set to start at 9 PM.
