Already eliminated from the Europa League, Nice hosts Krasnodar tonight (21:05) for honor’s sake. However, the Eagles are already focused on the trip to Paris, Sunday evening.
This Thursday evening, the Allianz Riviera will be the setting for the final day of the Europa League. Even though the match holds no stakes, the Nice team will play with the desire to exit with honors.
To this end, Lucien Favre has assembled a group of “substitutes” and made a wide review of the team, even including some newcomers.
In goal, Walter Benitez will take over from Yoan Cardinale to play his first match in Nice’s colors.
The Opponent
The Russian club from the southwest of the country (phew, not too far a trip) has the assets to be the surprise of the group. Founded in 2008 and having joined the Russian elite in 2011, it quickly climbed the ranks to discover Europe as early as 2014.
Krasnodar would then distinguish itself on the European stage with a surprise victory against Borussia Dortmund, allowing it to finish first in its Europa League group. However, the Russian club was subsequently eliminated in the round of 32 by Sparta Prague.
Among the team’s key players are captain Andreas Granqvist, Brazilian Wanderson, and Charles Kaboré, a former Olympique de Marseille player.
The Absentees
In addition to the prolonged absences of Mickaël Le Bihan, Paul Baysse, and Gautier Lloris, who remain injured, many regular players are being rested for this match, in preparation for the Paris trip. Thus, Dante, Ricardo, Dalbert, Sarr, Seri, Koziello, Walter, Cyprien, Belhanda, Pléa, and Eysseric are not present.
The Nice Squad
Goalkeepers: Cardinale, Benitez
Defenders: Souquet, Le Marchand, Boscagli, Burner, Perraud, Balmy, Suaut
Midfielders: Vercauteren, Lusamba, Albert, Bodmer, Marcel
Forwards: Balotelli, Donis, Bosetti, Mahou
The Krasnodar squad has not been revealed by the coach.
The Referee
Sandro Schärer will lead the proceedings, assisted on the lines by Johannes Vogel and Jean-Yves Wicht.
A young referee at 28 years old, Mr. Schärer has been officiating on the international scene since 2015 and will be meeting the Eagles for the first time.
