This Sunday, August 18, the Gym kicked off a new Ligue 1 season on the field of Auxerre. Despite opening the score, the Eagles were overturned by their opponents of the day (1-2).
Cruel scenario for the Gym! Nearly two months after their last official match, OGC Nice returned to the paths of Ligue 1 this Sunday, August 18, on the grounds of AJ Auxerre. The teammates of Dante began their championship at a newly-promoted team, champions of Ligue 2 last season.
For this encounter, Franck Haise had to deal with numerous absences (Moffi, Boga, Sanson, Louchet, and Bard). The Nice tactician opted for his usual 3-4-2-1 formation. The two summer recruits, Jonathan Clauss and Tanguy Ndombele, were starters from the outset.
Two Playing Teams
From the start of the match, OGC Nice and AJ Auxerre wanted to impose their style of play. With a willingness to play, both teams created early chances in this encounter. After several minor scares, the Gym finally opened the score (1-0).
Alone on the left side, Gaëtan Laborde delivered a superb cross onto the head of Mohamed Ali-Cho. The striker won his duel and scored the first goal of the Nice season. After this goal, the Burgundians showed themselves more. But Marcin Bulka stood firm to keep the danger at bay. However, the Eagles faltered just before the half-time, with a goal from Rayan Raveloson (1-1).
Auxerre Turns the Match Around
The pace and intensity did not drop at the start of the second half. Each team had its moments of dominance. The Gym created chances, such as a shot by Evann Guessand that hit the side netting. No one managed to take the lead in terms of score.
But OGC Nice was punished once again, just seconds before the end of the match. The passive Nice defense allowed Lasso Coulibaly to score past Marcin Bulka, after a long clearance from their goalkeeper (1-2). The Eagles were caught cold on the last opportunity. A cruel scenario for the Gym, who start their championship with a defeat!
The next match is next Sunday, August 25, for the Gym. OGC Nice will face Toulouse, as part of the second day of Ligue 1 2024/25. This encounter will mark the return of the Eagles to the Allianz Riviera. Kick-off is at 5 PM.
