It will be without the Populaire Sud stand, which is closed, that OGC Nice will host Paris-Saint-Germain this Saturday (5 PM) for a highly charged match. While Nice is targeting survival, the Parisians, virtual leaders, cannot afford to lose points if they are to continue believing in the title. The red and black team are specialists in the art of toppling the big teams. So will it be third time’s a charm (Monaco, Marseille, Lyon) or never four?
Could Nice be the spoilers in the title race? Early January, they beat OM (2-1), who were leaders at the time. Three weeks ago, under great pressure (average results and anger from supporters), Claude Puel and his men dominated Lyon on their own pitch (2-1), who were also leading Ligue 1. And now, Paris Saint-Germain arrives on the French Riviera, three days after the thrashing they received in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal against Barcelona (1-3).
“I would have preferred they achieved a better result this week, it would have allowed us to face a team thinking ahead to the return leg of the Champions League. It’s up to us to put on a good show, we have the means to do so,” admits Claude Puel in a press conference.
In Nice, the blue sky returns at Charles-Ehrmann. With three matches unbeaten and 41 points on the board, the Eaglets are breathing easier. Last Sunday’s victory at Reims (1-0, goal by Benrahma) allows them to edge a little closer to survival, which could be secured between 42 and 44 points according to Claude Puel. For the reception of the “Parisian ogre,” Carlos Eduardo, returning from suspension, is back in the squad, along with Didier Digard, who is still struggling with his calves. On the other hand, Eric Bautheac will be in the stands having received a third warning in less than 10 matches. Souleymane Diawara remains in preventive detention in Baumettes prison.
In what state will the Parisians arrive? It’s the big unknown. Undoubtedly, the defeat in the European Cup has left mental and physical marks. Thiago Silva, who exited in the 14th minute, will be absent, as will Thiago Motta, who is still not fit, and Verratti, who is suspended. As for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, his suspension was reduced on appeal to the CNOSF but he will serve the first of his three matches this Saturday. Laurent Blanc’s men will be under pressure with OL having retaken the top spot in the league with a game more. Every point dropped could prove costly with five matches remaining in the season.
“Yes, it’s a prestigious match, yes, we’re under less pressure than usual, but if we can secure survival by Saturday around 7 PM, we certainly won’t hold back,” explains Simon Pouplin.
In the first leg, Nice returned home with a suitcase full of regrets. Beaten 1-0 courtesy of an Ibrahimovic penalty, they dominated the second half and should have scored but were lacking a touch of efficiency. In these “gala” matches, the “little” team has very few clear chances. It’s up to Nice to make the most of these opportunities and perhaps pull off an upset, synonymous with survival.
Photo credit and more information on www.ogcnice.com
The OGC Nice squad:
Goalkeepers: Hassen, Pouplin
Defenders: Amavi, Bodmer, Genevois, Gomis, Palun, G. Puel
Midfielders: Albert, Carlos Eduardo, Digard, Eysseric, Hult, N. Mendy, Vercauteren
Forwards: Benrahma, Bosetti, Maupay, Plea
The PSG squad:
Goalkeepers: Douchez, Sirigu
Defenders: Aurier, Camara, David Luiz, Digne, Marquinhos, Maxwell, Van der Wiel
Midfielders: Cabaye, Cavani, R. Lacazette, Matuidi, Pastore, Rabiot
Forwards: Augustin, Bahebeck, Lavezzi, Lucas.
