Nice is set to host Auxerre on March 14, 2025, at the Allianz Riviera stadium for the 26th round of Ligue 1, marking another exciting chapter for both teams this season.
After experiencing a setback, losing 0-2 to Lyon, Nice hopes to bounce back and secure their position among the top three teams. This defeat halted their impressive six-game home winning streak, yet they remain third on the table, just three points behind second-placed Marseille, with only two points separating them from Monaco, their closest rival.
Throughout the season, Nice has performed well, accumulating 46 points from 13 wins, seven draws, and five losses. "The eagles" have showcased their talents but were unable to find their scoring touch against Lyon, where their offensive tactics failed to execute properly, and defensive lapses allowed Lyon to capitalize.
Despite this recent defeat, statistics reveal positive trends for Nice at home, having scored at least two goals in eight out of their last nine fixtures. Coach Frank Eza’s structured approach, emphasizing ball control and compact defense, continues to serve them well, promising competitive football.
For Auxerre, the situation is markedly different. They currently sit 11th on the table, having tallied 31 points with eight wins, seven draws, and ten losses this season. Their last match against Reims was hopeful, as they clinched a 2-0 victory which halted their five-match winless streak (comprised of four losses and one draw). "It was encouraging for us to finally get the points we needed," Coach Christophe Pelissier commented after the match.
Despite their improving form, Auxerre struggles away, having won just one of their last six matches on the road. They also face challenges with squad availability, as key players like Koulibaly remain injured and Akpa is suspended for this match.
A notable gap exists between the two teams’ performances. Nice has proven more formidable this season, especially at home, where they have only lost one match out of their last six games played. Conversely, Auxerre’s defensive reliability has come under scrutiny, after conceding at least two goals during ten of their last twelve away games.
Historically, the teams have faced each other 50 times, with Nice managing 15 victories, 11 draws, and Auxerre winning 24 times. When considering their last three encounters since Auxerre’s return to Ligue 1, they have scored against Nice each time.
The upcoming clash presents intriguing betting opportunities. Bookmakers view Nice as the favorites, slightly backed by their strong home performance and historical edge over Auxerre. Odds currently favor Nice to win at 1.55, with an anticipated total goals bet set at over 2.5 at 1.68, based on both teams’ scoring capabilities.
Should Nice regain their composure and capitalize on the shortcomings of Auxerre, it seems reasonable to predict they will walk away with the three points on offer. The home fixture not only serves to consolidate their third place but also aims to keep the pressure on those above them.
Though Nice’s defense has shown vulnerability, the likelihood of them scoring at least once is highly probable. Meanwhile, Auxerre’s attack, though capable, might find it difficult against such structured opposition. An intriguing aspect to watch for will be if Auxerre can find ways to exploit any defensive mistakes by Nice, as they have done historically. This match will undeniably be pivotal for both clubs as they aim to achieve their respective goals for the season.