OGC Nice travels to the Parc OL this evening to challenge PSG’s runner-up: Lyon. A week after their impressive victory against Rennes, Nice faces another contender for the podium.
There are evenings that define a season. This Friday, April 15th, could propel Nice’s very good season into excellence. Into a realm that Claude Puel’s men never imagined reaching at the start of the season. In case of success and while waiting for Monaco’s match, Nice could find themselves in 2nd place, by the end of the 34th matchday. Just a few steps away from the end of a league that OGC has stamped with their mark. Through play and offense.
Because if Nice is where they are today, the Azurean capital owes it primarily to its philosophy. Play, play, and more play. A midfield as carefree as it is technically bewildering and a blazing attack. Characteristics not too far from those that define OL’s great moments. An exciting duel of youth is anticipated at the Parc OL. A clash of styles not so distant. Earlier in the season, Lyon played the 4-4-2 diamond formation that works wonders for the reds and blacks.
Europe in sight
This setup allowed Lyon to compete with PSG last season and finish second in the championship. It remains to be seen if the diamond will once again act as a talisman to help the Gym reclaim this second place, synonymous with direct entry to the Champions League group stages. This is the collective objective of OGC Nice, and even Claude Puel no longer hides it. He declares himself a contender for the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th places in this final sprint.
But tonight’s 22 players also have individual goals to aim for. Behind Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the two other top scorers of the league face off. With 16 goals each, Lacazette and Ben Arfa can vie for the spot left vacant in the French national team due to Karim Benzema’s suspension. Nabil Fékir has not yet completely moved on, although his late return to competition gives him less of a chance. The stakes are high for this top match. All are significant and within reach for both teams. It remains to outdo oneself to surpass the others.
