A draw and regrets. For the launch of its Europa League campaign, OGC Nice failed to beat Real Sociedad in a tactically controlled duel, but where the Aiglons lacked maturity (1-1). A reassuring match in terms of play, but which also highlights the progress that Franck Haise’s men can make to have real ambitions in the competition.
The Niçois showed that it was not enough to play against a Ligue 1 promoted team to dominate their subject. At least in reality. Because in terms of the score, this draw does not reflect the ambitions of Pablo Rosario’s teammates this Wednesday evening. Starving like their midfielder, once again a scorer a few days after his penalty against Saint-Etienne, the Aiglons were everywhere in recovery.
Defensive rigor, offensive clumsiness
With a clear game plan, that of stifling their opponent in their own half, Nice wanted to be masters of their kingdom. A choice that paid off against a team only 16th in their championship and which has not scored a single goal for four games. Quickly, the Niçois were able to approach the opponent’s surface thanks to high recoveries and quick projection. Sometimes too much. The first regret of Franck Haise’s staff is undoubtedly this one, repeated technical errors of the 11 starters in the first half. And when you defend 1v1 the whole match, taking risks does not always pay off.
Badredine Bouanani paid the price in the 18th minute after a pass that was too strong to Rosario, converted into a goal a few seconds later by Ander Barrenetxea (18th). With a completely different face in the second half, Nice exposed itself to fewer risks. A relief for Jonathan Clauss and Melvin Bard who multiplied their efforts during the first 45 minutes. The full-backs, as always with Haise, participated in the attacks, this time with the support of an offensive Rosario. A determination for which he was rewarded with a goal after a beautiful cross shot before the break (45th).
The Ndombélé magic formula
Faced with the slowdown of the Spanish and the cleaner Niçois, the chances were more clear after the 60th minute. But the adjustments to be made before the important duel against Lazio at the beginning of October also reared their ugly heads. Youssoufa Moukoko was too often out of time compared to his teammates and in particular his attacking partner, Evann Guessand. The latter, although in form in Ligue 1, lacked accuracy, but above all missed a penalty in the 54th minute. Again regrettable.
To increase his team’s chances, Franck Haise brought on another strong man, Tanguy Ndombélé. The Frenchman quickly became crucial in the small spaces in front of the opposing area, justifying once again his recruitment this summer. The former Lyon player sends a positive message, as does his team. But both must now correct their biggest flaw, irregularity.