Once again, it is a remarkable feat but ultimately a cruel disappointment for the Nice team, who overcame an eight-goal deficit in Nantes (20-28) only to finally leave Europe to their hosts of the evening.
The challenge was significant, but it was also said that the Nice team traveled well this season, and this trip to Nantes would be no exception. A spectacular start by the Nice team and an imperious Darleux in goal gave them a +6 advantage after a quarter-hour of play (4-10). With solid play and regained precision from Bandelier and Chavez, the OGC Nice team went into the locker room still ahead by six goals.
No change in the second half, with the team from the Côte d’Azur still leading. It wasn’t until close to the hour mark that the Nice team seemed to secure a place in Europe with a +9 advantage. However, they could not account for the bad luck that followed the OGC Nice team throughout the season, nor for the strong performance of Nantes’ substitute goalkeeper, who thwarted Chavez’s final attempt in the last seconds of the game.
One more unfortunate small goal stopped the enthusiasm and momentum of the Nice team, who will undoubtedly use this experience to come back even stronger next season at the Charles Erhmann Sports Hall.
Have a great vacation, ladies!
