Nice will be looking to bounce back from their recent 2-0 home defeat to Lyon when they host Auxerre at the Allianz Riviera on Friday. Despite that loss, Franck Haise’s men remain in third place in Ligue 1, just three points behind second-placed Marseille.
A win in this fixture is crucial for Les Aiglons as they aim to solidify their spot in the Champions League qualification places while fending off pressure from Monaco and Lille, who sit just two points behind them
Nice will meet Auxerre in Exiting French Ligue 1 clash
Nice’s Strong Home Form
Prior to their defeat against Lyon, Nice had gone 11 consecutive home matches unbeaten in Ligue 1 (W8, D3). That consistency at the Allianz Riviera has been a key factor in their impressive campaign, and they will be eager to return to winning ways against a mid-table opponent.
Historically, Nice have dominated this fixture when playing at home, going unbeaten in their last five home matches against Auxerre (W4, D1). Even though they lost the reverse fixture 2-1 back in August, their overall form suggests they are unlikely to suffer a season double defeat to their opponents.
Auxerre’s Inconsistent Away Record
Auxerre’s recent 2-0 win over Reims was their first away clean sheet since being promoted, and while they have shown improvement in recent matches, their overall away form remains inconsistent. They have managed just one away victory in Ligue 1 since early November, and they have struggled against teams in the upper half of the table.
Despite their recent resurgence, Christophe Pelissier’s side has largely been unable to maintain consistency away from home. Their inability to dominate against stronger opposition makes them vulnerable in this matchup against a well-drilled Nice side.
Key Players to Watch
Mohamed-Ali Cho (Nice) – The young forward scored Nice’s opening goal of the season against Auxerre and will be looking to make an impact once again. However, he has only netted once in Ligue 1 since October, so this is an opportunity to regain his scoring touch.
Hamed Traoré (Auxerre) – Traoré has been in excellent form, recently becoming the first Auxerre player to score 10 goals in a Ligue 1 campaign since 2011/12. His attacking presence will be key if Auxerre are to trouble Nice’s defense.
Statistical Indicators for a Nice Victory
Nice have won 8 of their 12 home games in Ligue 1 this season, losing just once. Auxerre have only won one of their last six away games in the league, highlighting their struggles on the road. Nice are unbeaten in their last five home meetings with Auxerre (W4, D1).
Auxerre have not trailed at half-time in their last seven matches, but Nice’s second-half dominance in home fixtures could prove decisive.
Nice will meet Auxerre – Conclusion
Nice’s strong home record, their need to respond after the Lyon defeat, and Auxerre’s inconsistencies away from home all point towards a home victory. Given their dominance in past home meetings with Auxerre and their impressive overall form at the Allianz Riviera, Haise’s side should be confident of securing three points. Final Prediction: Nice to Win at an odd between 1.65-1.7 , will be a great choice.
