The team fielded by Patrick Vieira at the start of this match is set up in a 4-3-3 formation. Benitez, the savior in Toulouse, is in goal. In defense, Dante returns from suspension and replaces Malang Sarr. He is accompanied by Danilo. On the flanks, Hérelle and N’Soki are present. In midfield, Thuram, Lees-Melou, and Claude-Maurice start. Finally, in attack, Ounas and Ganago support Dolberg.
The first half is clearly in favor of the Nice team, who, in front of their supporters, push to try to open the score. They maintain possession and earn numerous corners. From one of these set pieces, Danilo heads the ball and forces Larsonneur, the Brest goalkeeper, to dive to deflect the ball.
Unfortunately, the enthusiasm of the Nice players in challenging for every ball is going to penalize them. Indeed, the match referee gives yellow cards in quick succession to Danilo and Hérelle for excessive commitment.
Ultimately, the first goal of the match will go to the red and blacks through Adam Ounas. On the left side, Ganago receives the ball and passes it to Claude-Maurice. The Frenchman sends a cross back for Dolberg, who manages to lightly touch the ball with his foot. Adam Ounas had followed well to the far post and pushes the ball into the back of the net (23rd minute).
And only 10 minutes after the first goal, the Nice team already extends the lead. Dolberg, very active throughout the match, receives the ball at the edge of the box. Without any run-up, he strikes hard at the near post. Larsonneur, hampered by his defender, is caught off guard and doesn’t see the ball coming his way. Consequently, he dives too late and cannot stop the ball (33rd minute).
With a two-goal advantage, the Nice team eases the pressure on the Brest defense and exposes themselves to a few chances.
The reduction in score will occur at the very end of the first half with Grandsir, who followed well after a shot was parried by Benitez (45th minute).
The second half is uninspired for the Nice team, who retreat into their half of the field.
As a result, the narrow lead is quickly erased after an unfortunate own goal by Dante (53rd minute).
The introductions of Lusamba, Maolida, and then Durmisi will not change anything, and the two teams part with a score of 2-2.
In the standings, the Gym is provisionally 9th with 37 points awaiting the weekend’s matches.
