Nice Vs Lyon

This weekend in Ligue 1, a crucial fixture takes place at the Allianz Riviera, where third-placed Nice will welcome sixth-placed Lyon in what promises to be a defining clash in the race for European qualification. With just seven points separating the two teams, the visitors need nothing less than a victory if they are to keep their hopes of Champions League football alive for next season.

Nice enter the match in impressive form, having only suffered one defeat in Ligue 1 throughout 2025. Their consistent performances have seen them claim victory in seven of their last ten matches, reinforcing their stronghold in the upper echelon of the table. Although Paris Saint-Germain appear to have the league title wrapped up, currently enjoying a 13-point cushion at the summit, the battle for the remaining Champions League spots remains fiercely competitive.

Currently sitting third with 46 points, Nice find themselves sandwiched between second-placed Marseille and fourth-placed Monaco, with just six points spanning this trio. This tight competition has pushed Nice to maintain a high level of performance on both ends of the pitch. Defensively, they have been one of the league’s best, conceding only 28 goals in 24 matches, ranking them as the fourth-strongest defense in the division. Meanwhile, their attacking prowess has been equally impressive, with their tally of 49 goals making them the third-highest scoring side, trailing only PSG and Marseille.

Evann Guessand has played a key role in Nice’s attacking success. The forward reached double digits for goals in Ligue 1 last weekend, scoring his 10th league goal of the season in a 3-1 victory over St-Etienne. Not only has Guessand been a consistent threat in front of goal, but he has also emerged as Nice’s most creative force, leading the team with eight assists. His ability to both score and set up goals has been a major factor in Nice’s strong position in the standings.

Franck Haise’s side has been formidable at home and away this season, ranking third for home performances and fourth in away fixtures. However, one of their few setbacks on the road came in December against Lyon, when they fell to a 4-1 defeat, courtesy of an Alexandre Lacazette hat-trick. That heavy loss will serve as motivation for the hosts as they seek redemption in front of their supporters this weekend.

Meanwhile, Lyon arrive at this encounter off the back of a midweek European outing, having secured a 3-1 victory over Steaua Bucharest in the first leg of their Europa League tie. The club’s form has seen an upturn since the arrival of Paulo Fonseca, who replaced Pierre Sage at the end of January following a poor start to 2025. Since Fonseca’s appointment, Lyon have won four of their six league fixtures, signaling a noticeable improvement under their new boss.

However, Lyon’s preparations for this fixture have been disrupted by off-the-pitch controversy. Fonseca was handed a severe nine-month suspension from matchday duties after confronting referee Benoit Millot during last weekend’s 2-1 win over Brest. The heated altercation saw the manager sent off, and he will now be unable to access the bench, dressing room, or carry out any official duties before, during, and after matches until late November. His absence will undoubtedly be a challenge for Lyon, as his tactical presence on the sidelines has been instrumental in their recent resurgence.

Despite this turmoil, Lyon’s attacking form has improved significantly under Fonseca’s leadership. In his five league matches in charge, Lyon have scored 14 goals, a stark contrast to the 30 they managed in 19 games under Sage. This offensive rejuvenation has played a crucial role in their push for European qualification, and they now stand as the fifth-highest scorers in the league, trailing only the current top four teams.

Lacazette has been at the forefront of Lyon’s attacking exploits. The former Arsenal striker has found the back of the net nine times in 21 league appearances, including a brace in the comeback victory over Brest last week. His ability to lead the line and produce in crucial moments will be vital if Lyon are to challenge Nice this weekend.

Despite their attacking improvement, Lyon’s away form remains a concern. The club has struggled on the road, managing just four wins in 12 away fixtures, compared to seven home victories in an equal number of matches. This inconsistency away from the Groupama Stadium adds another layer of difficulty to their task against a Nice side that has been strong at home.

A win for Lyon would narrow the gap between the two sides to four points and keep their Champions League aspirations alive, while a victory for Nice would strengthen their hold on third place and keep the pressure on Marseille for the second automatic Champions League qualification spot. With so much at stake, both teams will be fully motivated to deliver a strong performance, ensuring an intense and captivating battle at the Allianz Riviera this Sunday.