The defeat at Auxerre (2-1) plunges the Aiglons deeper into doubt. Depleted as they prepare to host Valenciennes at Stade du Ray (18th matchday), René Marsiglia’s men would be well advised to secure a win to get out of the relegation zone.
In the likeness of Fabian Monzon and Éric Mouloungui, the Niçois could kick themselves for having let precious points slip away at Auxerre (2-1). Especially since this new defeat in the league leads the Aiglons closer to a point of no return.
With two matchdays to go until the end of the first half of the 2011-2012 season, the paths of the two teams are strikingly similar. However, in case of a victory, it could be the Niçois who would gain some breathing space.
The infirmary is full on both sides!
More than ever, victory will not be easy to achieve. The Azurean coach, René Marsiglia, has not had an easy week. And for good reason: the Niçois infirmary is full! Besides the “regulars” – Faé (phlebitis) and Pentecôte (knee) – Marsiglia will also have to do without Guié-Guié (sports hernia) and Diakité (fibula).
Rested during the week, Hellebuyck and Dja Dje-Dje will, however, be present. The same goes for Anthony Mounier, who returned from Auxerre with a sore hip, and Didier Digard, initially declared uncertain.
At Valenciennes too, times are tough. Even the victory against the leader Montpellier last week did not heal all the wounds. The northern coach must deal with the absences of Pujol (adductors), Cohade (shoulder blade), and Sanchez (hamstrings).
Besides physical issues, VA is not a very comfortable team away from home (19th, 2 points, 7 losses). The Gym would be well advised to take advantage of their opponent’s weaknesses to snatch some crucial points.
