This is already the third Ligue 1 match for the Gym this season. Against an Olympique Lyonnais team struggling at the start of the championship, the Aiglons had a good opportunity to capitalize.
Despite the absence of Jérémie Boga, there were no surprises in the starting eleven for Nice. In the usual 4-3-3 formation, Terence Moffi returned to the main squad, with Jean-Clair Todibo taking back his position alongside Dante in central defense. For Lyon, without Anthony Lopes, Dejan Lovren, and Clinton Mata still injured, the recent suspension of Alexandre Lacazette complicated matters for the Gones before facing a nearly full-strength Gym.
A Low-Paced Match
Nice quickly took control of the ball to create the best opportunities in the first half. With high pressing, Francesco Farioli’s men literally suffocated their evening opponents. The Gym could notably rely on the good form of Amin Diop, who quickly engaged in the match. In contrast, Morgan Sanson had a quieter game. After two fiery matches, the Frenchman was more reserved despite some good attempts.
On the other side of the field, young Bradley Barcola took the opportunity to showcase his talent, but not enough to worry Marcin Bulka. Rayan Cherki wasn’t left out either. Always precise with his ball handling, the offensive midfielder caused disruptions in the opposing defense without converting.
Similarly to the first half, the second half didn’t stand out. Nice continued to dominate possession, to no avail. The introductions of Badredine Bouanani, Hicham Boudaoui, and Evann Guessand aimed to add pace to the attack, which worked as expected. However, the Aiglons couldn’t find the breakthrough against a team fighting for survival. Third consecutive draw for the Gym (0-0)!
Next match: OGC Nice vs. Strasbourg next Sunday at the Allianz Riviera (17:05).
