Three days after their victory in Bordeaux (1-0), the Nice team welcomes Auxerre to the Allianz Riviera in the late afternoon for the Round of 32 of the Coupe de la Ligue. It’s an opportunity for the Aiglons to build momentum and create a positive dynamic.
Patrick Vieira’s men will hold fond memories of Bordeaux. Thanks to their win at Matmut Atlantique (1-0), they have moved up to 10th place in the Ligue 1 standings, entering the upper half of the table for the first time this season. “It’s good for confidence. But now we need to focus on the match against Auxerre,” notes Patrick Vieira. “We have the chance to try to string together matches and victories,” he continues.
Indeed, this afternoon’s match (6:45 PM at the Allianz Riviera) counts for the Round of 32 of the Coupe de la Ligue. Another competition that the Azur coach is ambitious to play all out. “The objective is to go as far as possible. It’s important for the club to get through this round and fight to go far in the competition.” To achieve this, they will need to outclass Auxerre.
A Ligue 2 team but …
The Auxerre club is currently 18th in the Ligue 2 standings. Pablo Correa’s men are struggling and have suffered 3 losses in their last 4 matches.
An arguably weaker team, but the Coupe de la Ligue delivers surprises every year. It’s a match far from easy. “It’s a great French club despite their complicated start to the season. They will give it their all; it’s another competition, and they will want to do better,” says coach Vieira.
The Nice team must therefore be careful as they aim for a second consecutive victory.
A reshuffled squad
To welcome this team from AJ Auxerre, the Nice squad will be missing several key players. And not the least. Firstly, Mario Balotelli and captain Dante are both suspended. On the injury side, Pierre Lees-Melou, Youcef Atal, and Mickael Le Bihan are out. Christophe Hérelle, who received a knee blow at the end of last week, which kept him out of the Bordeaux match, will be testing this morning to determine his participation in the match.
Patrick Vieira will thus not be able to rely on the usual key players. It’s an opportunity for some to showcase their skills and get some playing time. “Every time I have the opportunity to play, I try to give it my all. If the coach calls on me, I will be ready,” says Ignatius Ganago. The 19-year-old Cameroonian forward has had little playing time early this season: 3 appearances for one goal against Caen (1-1). He will likely have the chance to shine tonight.
Others might take advantage of this Round of 32 to catch up with the pace. Danilo and Makengo are returning from injury and can vie for a place in the starting 11.
Pierre Ferrand
