And off we go again! For this 10th day of Ligue 1, the Gym was traveling to Clermont, second-to-last in the championship. Debrief.
After their recent victory against OM, the unbeaten team from Nice (2nd) traveled with a calm mindset to face a team going through tough times. However, the Jaunards are coming off their only victory so far, against a Lyon team at the bottom of the abyss since they are last in the standings. Caution is required though: Clermont boasts a record of three consecutive victories in Ligue 1 against Nice. Even if the match seems unbalanced on paper, all scenarios are possible over 90 minutes.
Still in the 4-3-3 formation, Francesco Farioli surprised many by starting Evann Guessand instead of Terem Moffi. Having scored the previous weekend, the Franco-Ivorian proved he wasn’t just there to play the role of a luxury substitute. Back in the group, Khéphren Thuram, due to groin pains, started the match on the bench. Finally, in the absence of Lotomba (thigh) and Atal (seven-match suspension), Pablo Rosario was preferred over the young Mendy on the right side of the defense.
Nice dominates but doesn’t capitalize
Quickly getting into the game, the Aiglons controlled the ball in the first half, appearing dangerous but without worrying the opposing goalkeeper. But everything changed in the 36th minute with a penalty provoked by Hicham Boudaoui, which was unfortunately missed by Gaëtan Laborde, whose attempt flew over Mory Diaw’s crossbar.
Continuing in the same rhythm in the second half, newcomer Romain Perraud sent a magnificent cross to Boudaoui, once again well-positioned and with no more to do but push the ball into the net (74′). Clearly, Farioli has a knack. As the locals went all out at the end of the match, they seemed not to have the resources needed to surprise the best defense in Ligue 1 (only four goals conceded). Yet another long-range shot from Alidu Seidu went close to Marcin Bulka’s goal, but to no avail.
After Metz and Marseille, the Aiglons win on Clermont’s field, thus temporarily taking the top spot in the standings ahead of Monaco. See you next Sunday at 8:45 PM for the Gym, who will face Rennes at home.
