Fear of a series of lackluster matches or the desire to take control of their destiny? This is the equation posed to the Nice players for the end of the season. Playing away at Guingamp, OGC Nice has the chance to provide a good indication of their true motivation.
The problem is simple for Claude Puel’s men. They need to win, win again, and win some more. In short, Nice needs a positive streak. A shock wave capable of overturning all the most pessimistic predictions.
A victory in Guingamp would symbolize the Azurian revolt. A hostile land since it’s far from the Allianz Riviera, Guingamp nevertheless has all the makings of a perfect victim. One win in the last 13 matches, Gourvennec’s squad has been slowly but surely sinking for many months. Their last victory in Ligue 1 dates back to November 30, 2013. An eternity.
Only the French Cup has managed to save the Breton newcomer, still present at the quarter-final stage. Yet, the Roudourou residents started the season off with a bang. The Bretons even flirted with the top places. Today, things have changed significantly. The defeat at Sochaux further deepened a club possessing only a five-point lead over the first relegation spot. A rather sad performance when considering the dire level of the bottom three clubs.
For all these reasons, OGC Nice would be well-advised to secure their second away win. Deprived of part of their defense with the absences of Pejcinovic and Kolodziejczak, Claude Puel will also have to manage without his usual captain Didier Digard. Absences that are detrimental but entirely surmountable against a team like Guingamp. Expected as a men’s match, with less emphasis on technique, this Guingamp vs. OGC Nice will not be for putting on a show.
Two teams losing confidence on a disastrous pitch. Better lineups have been seen. Regardless, the winner of this match will have taken a big step mentally… and towards staying up!
Photo credit and more info on www.ogcnice.com
