Contrary to appearances, OGC Nice and the Girondins de Bordeaux have been closing in on each other since the start of the season. Francis Gillot’s men lead the Aiglons by one point in the standings. Regardless, the Gym, a nemesis of the scapula-wearing team, will have to take the initiative to win at the Ray on Saturday (9 p.m.).
One win in nine matches: such is the thin record shared by OGC Nice and the Girondins de Bordeaux since the start of the 2011/2012 season.
But both teams are urgently in need of results as they approach this tenth matchday of Ligue 1. Respectively 16th and 14th, Nice and Bordeaux are separated by just one point in the standings.
Take the initiative and score
With their backs against the wall, Éric Roy’s men will be urged by their supporters to play an attacking game against Francis Gillot’s players, who are improving but were too soft in their initial performances.
That being said, the Aiglons long appeared incapable of responding when trailing, in the last home match against the promoted Dijon team (1-1). It took the frustrated Ray crowd to spur the Aiglons into finally showing some offensive grit.
Mouloungui, Mounier, Dja Dje-Dje, and company stand to gain much if they can exploit the weaknesses of a Bordeaux defense troubled by poor form, suspensions, and injuries.
The scapula-wearing club has not won at the Ray in six years (1-0 victory, November 2005 – goal by Laslandes). The Azuréens would be well advised to react, to maintain their status as a black… and red!… beast!
