On March 9, 2025, OGC Nice faced off against Olympique Lyonnais at the Allianz Riviera for the 25th round of Ligue 1, marking another chapter in their competitive rivalry.
Nice, undefeated at home this season, was aiming for their fifth consecutive victory to close the gap on second-placed Olympique de Marseille. The Aiglons, currently sitting third with 46 points, sought to impress their fans after defeating AS Saint-Etienne 3-1 last weekend. Meanwhile, Lyon, struggling to maintain their pursuit of European qualification, entered the match sitting sixth, four points behind their rivals.
From the outset, the game began with intensity as both teams pressed for control. The Lyonnais, equipped with Alexandre Lacazette, aimed to replicate their success from the reverse fixture, where they triumphed 4-1. On the contrary, Nice hoped home advantage would lead them across the finish line first.
Early on, the match saw its first caution when Saël Kumbedi from Lyon received a yellow card just four minutes post-kickoff for pulling Melvin Bard's shirt. Nevertheless, it was Nice applying early pressure, earning several corners without converting their chances. The home side came close to scoring when Gaëtan Laborde hit the post with his header, showcasing Nice's attacking prowess and leaving Lyon’s keeper, Lucas Perri, relieved.
Lyon struggled to create significant opportunities as Nice's midfield exerted control. Although Lyon worked the ball across their back line, their possession remained ineffective with few chances reaching Nice's ranked keeper. The rain continued to pour down which complicated play, making ball control difficult for both teams.
After the halftime break, the intensity stiffened with Lyon attempting to regain control of the game. Nice’s goalkeeper, Marcin Bulka, remained untroubled during the first half, but with Lyon now finding their rhythm, Almada's shot was easily saved, illustrating the persistent threat they posed.
The match took another turn when Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca, who was suspended from the bench for this fixture, implemented tactics from the stands through his assistant. Lyon recorded several promising chances, yet Bulka held firm, preserving the score at 0-0 through his sharp reflexes.
It wasn't until the 76th minute when the deadlock was broken, when Rayan Cherki scored after taking advantage of confusion caused by Nice’s defense. Cherki's strike came about after Bulka lost possession due to continuous pressure from the Lyon front. Lacazette's presence off the pitch stirred the crowd, but Lyon's momentum continued forward.
Cruelly, just moments before, both teams had made notable substitutions. Matic for Lynon was replaced by Cherki, and Lacazette made way for Mikautadze, indicating Lyon was willing to take risks late to secure the win.
At 78 minutes, Nice sought to respond quickly with substitutions of their own, bringing on Jeremie Boga and Pablo Rosario, hoping to recover valuable points to vie for European football next season. The game, until then, had showcased Nice's organizational strength but lacked finishing touches, whereas the visitors were finding their clinical edge.
Despite Nice’s desperate attempts to claw back, the scoreline remained fixed. Ndayishimiye received a yellow card for putting Lacazette down, demonstrating Nice's effort and the physical nature of the match. Both teams displayed resolve, challenging each other across the pitch.
Throughout, the fans provided unwavering support from the stands, especially as Nice sought to break their duck. But, Lyon, through Perri’s promising saves and resolute defending, held tightly to their advantage.
The final whistle blew, concluding the match with Lyon securing the points at 1-0. This victory keeps Lyon's hopes alive for European competition next season. Meanwhile, Nice suffered their first loss to Lyon this season, ending their unbeaten run and keeping them firmly at third place, continuing to chase the less unassailable Marseille.
The match was broadcast live on DAZN, showcasing the high stakes both teams faced for the remainder of Ligue 1. The anticipation of fans and players mixed, making this match unforgettable.
Stay tuned for more thrilling moments as the Ligue 1 season progresses.