For their entry into the French Cup, the Aiglons are traveling to Toulouse, just like last year, with the hope of finally making it past the round of 64.
It had to be one. While 18 of the 20 Ligue 1 clubs have drawn an opponent from a lower division, the match between Toulouse and Nice (this Sunday at 5:15 PM) will be the only round of 64 game featuring two elite teams.
This is starting to become a habit for Nice. Indeed, the draw has pitted them against 6 Ligue 1 clubs in their last 5 French Cup participations. The only exception: the trip to Valenciennes, a Ligue 2 team, in 2015.
THE ABSENTEES
There will be some absentees on the Toulouse side. Deemed not fit enough, both defenders Stéphane M’Bia and Steeve Yago have been forced to withdraw. Four midfielders will also be missing: Ibrahim Sangaré, Steven Fortes, Yannick Cahuzac, and Jimmy Durmaz.
Introduced this Friday, the Japanese international defender Gen Shoji will not be part of the group selected by Alain Casanova either.
On the Nice side, Dante and Atal will be suspended. Danilo, Cardinale, Myziane, and Lees-Melou are still injured. Hassen, Le Bihan, and Lloris are currently in recovery.
THE TOULOUSE SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Goicoechea, Reynet
Defenders: Amian, Diakité, Jullien, Moreira, Moubandje, Sylla
Midfielders: Bostock, Dossevi, El Mokeddem, Garcia, Sidibé
Forwards: Gradel, Jean, Leya Iseka, Mubele, Sanogo
THE NICE SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Benitez, Clémentia
Defenders: Sarr, Burner, Hérelle, Pelmard, Boscagli, Jallet
Midfielders: Walter, Cyprien, Tameze, Makengo, Dramé
Forwards: Srarfi, Ganago, Sacko, Sylvestre, Mahou
THE REFEREE
The central referee will be Amaury Delerue.
