Nîmes Olympique will face Boulogne-sur-Mer on Friday, March 21, 2025, for the 26th match day of the National League, taking place at the Stade de la Libération at 19:30. This match holds significant weight for the beleaguered Nîmes, who have struggled dramatically this season.
Under the guidance of coach Adil Hermach, Nîmes has found itself in a precarious position, currently sitting at the bottom of the league standings. The team has not won an away game since May 2024, a streak that has now stretched over ten months. In stark contrast, Boulogne, newly promoted from National 2, has been a standout success story, remaining undefeated at home and currently occupying a high position in the league.
"The end of the season is going to be very complicated, we know that, we prepared for it. It’s going to be the final sprint. We have confrontations against the top four, but we believe strongly," Hermach stated, reflecting the determination within the Nîmes camp as they prepare for what many expect to be a challenging fixture.
Nîmes' central struggle this season has revolved around their inability to secure points, especially in tight matches. In recent encounters, they notably dropped crucial points against Sochaux, drawing 1-1 after leading, and later faltered against Dijon in a scoreless draw, where missed opportunities proved costly. "It's something quite anxiety-inducing for the players: we've let go of a lot of points," Hermach lamented, indicating the coach's frustration with their current form.
As Nîmes prepares to battle Boulogne, several players are unavailable due to selection, suspension, or injury issues. Notably, goalkeeper Simon is unavailable due to national duty with Cameroon, while captain Mendy and vice-captain Picouleau face suspensions. Injuries have also sidelined Paviot and Sbaï, casting doubt over the team's defensive structure.
On the flip side, Boulogne has built a formidable reputation at home, not having lost a single match there, and their last home defeat dates back to May 18 against Lorient's reserve team. In terms of statistics, Boulogne leads in goals scored relative to passes taken, with sporting director Sébastien Larcier noting, "Boulogne is the team that needs the least passes to score a goal." This efficiency starkly contrasts with Nîmes, who have struggled to convert chances consistently.
Despite these daunting statistics and challenges, coach Hermach remains optimistic. "We will go there without changing our philosophy and to win," he asserted. This resolve to stick to their tactical approach, even in the face of adversity, is critical as it underlines the team's attitude as they seek to shift their momentum.
The lineups for both teams showcase a mixture of resiliency and challenges. For Boulogne, a potential starting XI may include Delins (or Uriev), Averlant, Thiam, Dabo, Gourville, Kitenge, Bultel, Vercruysse, Hbouch, Rambaud, and Epailly. Meanwhile, Nîmes may field Ichalalen (first start), supported by Labonne, Diouf (captain), Iafrate, Beneddine, Doukansy, Marcel, Akkal, Mexique, Malouda, and Abdeldjelil.
As fans gear up for this crucial clash, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Nîmes, who are desperate to break their away curse. Given their lengthy winless run on the road, every moment in Boulogne will be critical for their campaign. Amidst the pressure of expectations, Nîmes must find their mental strength to battle through and rediscover their winning ways.
