This weekend, OGC Nice is traveling to the field of AS Monaco, its eternal rival and neighbor. But this year, the stakes are even higher.
Indeed, the two clubs from the Côte d’Azur occupy the top two places in the French championship.
While AS Monaco’s position is not surprising, thanks to its successful sports policy and many highly talented players, all led by Leonardo Jardim, OGC Nice’s position is more unexpected.
The Aiglons have had a dazzling end to the summer transfer window (Dante, Belhanda, Balotelli), coupled with very talented young players (Pléa, Cyprien, Koziello, not to mention the emergence of Sarr) and successful bets (Dalbert, Ricardo, Walter). Since the sixth matchday and a fantastic victory over… Monaco (4-0), the Aiglons have held the top position in the championship, sometimes joined by the Monegasques.
This Saturday at Louis II (5 PM), the derby promises to be intense. Especially since, in recent years, it has favored Monaco more than Nice. The latter have won only once in the past three years, on September 27, 2014, thanks to a goal by Carlos Eduardo in the 7th minute.
Saturday’s derby is therefore expected to be crucial for the end of the season, both for the Monegasques and the Niçois.
For this match, about 2,000 Nice supporters are expected at the Louis II Stadium. Tickets will be on sale today only.
