In a crucial match for the race to European competitions, OGC Nice (5th) hosted Dijon (3rd). The stakes were high: a victory would have allowed the Nice team to enter the top 4. At home, they had achieved six victories in seven matches, but this time, they had to concede defeat after an intense encounter.
From the beginning, the Nice players struggled to convert their chances. Dijon opened the scoring and then extended the lead by two points. Despite this challenging start, the Nice goalkeeper shone, repelling two penalties and making numerous decisive saves.
The match became balanced, with goals from both sides. Nice took a three-point lead, but then followed with six consecutive six-meter shots without scoring. This inefficiency proved costly, as Dijon came back to equalize with 2 minutes and 30 seconds left. The Nice team still managed to snatch the equalizer with 5 seconds to go before the buzzer. Halftime score: (16-16).
A tense second half
The start of the second half was difficult for the Nice team. Just after the 32nd minute, they conceded a penalty, which their goalkeeper saved. However, Dijon took the lead in the 34th minute, and both teams then experienced exceptional performances from the goalkeepers. Nice equalized in the 37th minute, but never managed to regain the lead.
Dijon maintained a two-point advantage with ten minutes to go, thanks to solid defense and well-executed counterattacks. The red and blacks tried to come back, but the Dijon team held firm with solid defense and perfect counterattacks.
Final score: (29-31). A frustrating result for the Nice team, who could have hoped for more without some controversial refereeing decisions. Next Game: February 19 against Stella St Maur (11th). A victory will be imperative.
