On Tuesday, March 1st, OGC Nice will face Versailles in the semi-finals of the Coupe de France. Twenty-five years after their last title in this competition, the “Eaglets” have a chance to secure a spot in the final and pursue their fourth Coupe de France.
Two teams with two different paths. One is considered the underdog in this competition, while the other was not expected to reach this stage and has been a constant surprise since the beginning of the season. It is under these circumstances that the Nice team hosts the Versailles team. Two days after their draw in Strasbourg, Nice will need to elevate their level of play, which has been unconvincing in the last three matches. With their stalwart Dante and one of their best players, Kluivert, absent due to suspension, Christophe Galtier can rely on a well-rounded and quality squad. Amine Gouiri, impressive since the start of the season, will likely lead the Nice attack, accompanied by the Algerian Delort or the Dane Dolberg. The French coach can also count on a stellar Walter Benitez, who shone in their last match. If the “Eaglets” managed to secure a point in Alsace, it was thanks to the Argentine goalkeeper. With six saves, Walter Benitez showcased all his talent and secured a clean sheet, reinforcing that Nice boasts the best defense in Ligue 1. After eliminating PSG and OM, Nice has all the tools and confidence needed to go all the way in this competition. However, caution is still advised against this year’s underdog.
Even though the National 2 team has yet to face a Ligue 1 team, the amateur players still have an admirable track record, having eliminated Toulouse. The Versailles team can rely on quality players. Notably, Michel, a midfielder who is small, fast, and lively, impressed against Toulouse and Bergerac. Djoco, the 26-year-old French striker, possesses numerous physical attributes but still lacks the composure to finish his actions. Furthermore, Makan Traoré, the versatile full-back, scored a stunning volley against La Roche-sur-Yon. Youssef Chibbi’s men currently lead their league and are enjoying a stellar season. This is a match in which they have nothing to lose, posing a danger to the Nice team.
The “Eaglets” are clear favorites, despite stagnant results in Ligue 1. Still, they must be wary of the Versailles team, which can rely on individual qualities that could make a difference. Christophe Galtier’s men must deliver a solid performance if they wish to secure a spot in the final.
Probable Lineups:
Nice:
Goalkeeper: Benitez
Defenders: Bard, Daniliuc, Todibo, Lotomba
Midfielders: Thuram, Lemina, Rosario, Stengs
Forwards: Gouiri, Delort
Versailles:
Goalkeeper: Delaunay
Defenders: Durand de Gevigney, Akueson, Diouf, Traore, Pham Ba
Midfielders: Diarrassouba, Vieira, Sylva, Michel
Forward: Djoco
