First championship match of 2014 for OGC Nice and the first draw at Rennes (0-0). In a match marked by a missed penalty on both sides, Nice overall comes out well. Evidence of a recovery, even if a bit sluggish, from some of the eaglets.
A disappointing match for OGC Nice on Breton soil, saved from criticism by securing a point but totally powerless offensively, Claude Puel’s team managed the feat of not getting any shots on target throughout the entire match. Worse, the Niçois only shot at the goal twice in 90 minutes.
Struggling throughout the game, the Riviera club should logically have lost if not for a very great Ospina. The Colombian goalkeeper, starting despite a knee injury, made several classy saves. He even stopped a penalty from Kadir, excluding a persistent pain. A courageous behavior, although too little imitated by his teammates on the field. Given the tenor of the match and the result, there are various disappointments. Grégoire Puel, starting on the right side of the defense, was simply well below his level. Late on the penalty obtained by Rennes, he tackled Feret in the area as a sign of his difficulties. Not deeply in trouble enough, he clumsily handled the ball in the 16 meters. Rather lucky, the defender escaped the referee’s attention on this action.
But the most worrying remains Dario Cvitanich’s black period, silent for two months with OGC Nice. Indicative of his lack of confidence, he also failed in his penalty attempt, shooting well over the goal. Disturbed by this goal-less period, the Argentine took to Twitter to thank his fans for their support: you are amazing, I thank you for your words, I promise you that this situation will change!!! Thank you.. A delicate situation for this formidable finisher of the Nice collective. Crippled by injuries, lack of efficiency, and a shaky defense, OGC Nice fails to implement its system. A worrying observation as the club is 14th in the standings.
For the next match, Claude Puel’s men will have the opportunity to clear their heads with a decisive match in the Coupe de la Ligue quarter-final in Nantes. A new turning point in the winding season of the eaglets.
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