The victory over Rennes (2-0) last week has reignited OGC Nice in Ligue 1. Although they are 18th in the standings, René Marsiglia’s men have rediscovered enthusiasm and freshness. This is a good sign ahead of facing a direct survival competitor: AJ Auxerre.
Undoubtedly, the victory against Stade Rennais last Saturday (2-0) has boosted OGC Nice. Is this a good omen on the eve of the trip to Auxerre (17th round, 5 PM)? Yes, because the team from the French Riviera confirmed the progress seen at Lorient, despite the defeat (0-1).
Moreover, AJ Auxerre is no longer the dominant team from the Guy Roux years. Ranked 16th, Laurent Fournier’s men have not advanced this season. They have only won two matches in the last thirteen rounds.
Auxerre, the turning point
Clearly, any result other than a victory against a direct survival competitor in Ligue 1 would constitute yet another frustration, set in stone in this 2011-2012 season. On the club’s official website, Serbian central defender Nemanja Pejcinovic even describes this match as a “turning point of the season.”
Without Pentecôte (rupture of the right knee’s cruciate ligaments), but with Mouloungui (back from a ban after two-match suspension), the Eagles will be keen to confirm the improvement.
To achieve this, they only need to replicate the team performance showcased against the Bretons. As for Laurent Fournier’s men, they will need to start by tightening their lines and displaying more consistency. Otherwise, they risk trouble.
