As Nice has just played its 11th championship match, the Côte d’Azur club is not moving up from the red zone. Despite the victory obtained this weekend at home against Nancy (2-1), OGC Nice is only in 15th place, four points away from the first relegation spot. Analysis of a team that seemingly has everything to succeed.
On the last day of the championship, a nervous Gym presents itself at Gerland. A victory against Lyon would ensure the Azuréens remain in Ligue 1. After a rather crazy match, Nice wins 4-3 and stays for another season in the elite. This was the epilogue of a grueling 2011/12 season. 2010/11 was equally challenging. Nice finished in 17th place and owed its salvation only to Monaco’s defeat against Lyon (Again!) on the last day of the championship.
Putting an end to this recurring problem is the Gym’s top priority this year. Finishing the season serenely and ending among the best in the elite are dreams Nice wants to believe in. Through more or less high-profile transfers during the summer, OCG Nice intended to bounce back. First, the emblematic Claude Puel joined the red and black ship, with the objective of stabilizing it. Known for his glorious runs with Lille and Lyon, Puel the savior must replicate his achievements in Nice. With the help of recruits like Delle, Cvitanich, Bauthéac, Pied, and Kolodziejczak, the Gym needed to address its deficiencies. Yet, the verdict is clear and unequivocal, Nice is sorely lacking victories. With only 2 victories, 3 defeats, and 6 draws, the club has resumed its steady pace of past years.
With 15 goals scored since the beginning of the season, OGC Nice is not far behind the top teams leading the league. Nevertheless, the 17 goals conceded are causing issues and almost alone explain the team’s modest ranking. Another significant issue: Nice is constantly caught up in the score. Although the team delivers beautiful play since the start of the season, it consistently falters at the end of the match and lets slip the coveted (and sometimes deserved) victory.
Beyond the numbers, Nice is known for the unique spirit that characterizes it. A valiant and fighting spirit that has already enabled it to achieve feats. The determination that drives this team, along with its high-level experience, should allow OGC Nice to challenge Marseille on Sunday at the Vélodrome. An important step to distance further from the relegation zone.
And they will need to be valiant and strong this Sunday, starting at 2 PM, over at the certain Stade Vélodrome in Marseille…
