Stoppage for Nice. Surprised by Nantes during the 14th day, the Aiglons fell again during the 16th round this Saturday, in Le Havre (3-1). Clear, clean and flawless, with a double from Sabbi and a penalty from Bayo. A match which ended at 10 against 10, after the expulsions of Jean-Clair Todibo and Samuel Grandsir at the end of the game. Result which does business for PSG, crowned fall champion even before playing on Sunday in Lille. Luis Enrique’s players are four points ahead of Nice before the last day of the first leg, next Wednesday. In the standings, the Gym remains second, two points ahead of Monaco, third.
The first defeat of the Aiglons conceded in Nantes (0-1), two weeks ago, undoubtedly gave ideas to the HAC, determined to strike a big blow. Aggressive from the kick-off, the Ciel et Marine punished the hand fault of Marcin Bulka, who poorly repelled Mohamed Bayo’s shot victoriously taken back by Emmanuel Sabbi (1-0, 5th). The American would become the big man of this first act by scoring a double half an hour later. A second magnificent goal with a clear shot into the top corner on which Bulka could do nothing this time (2-0, 35th). The shot was perfect for Le Havre, saved in the meantime several times by its goalkeeper. Arthur Desmas was indeed vigilant in front of Pablo Rosario (14th), then Jérémie Boga (20th) and again Rosario (29th). Evan Guessand did not target his attempts (9th, 37th) and the Niçois, although dangerous, found themselves trapped at the break by efficient and united Le Havre.
At the break, Francesco Farioli launched Morgan Sanson to sound the revolt. But the Italian coach’s hopes were dashed once and for all when Melvin Bard conceded a penalty in contact with Loïc Nego. Bayo quietly transformed the offering, sealing the fate of the game (3-0, 51st). As the minutes passed, the desire and calm of Nice disappeared to give way to frustration and the boulevards behind. Casimir was unable to take advantage of it in front of Bulka (67th) while Bayo lacked technical accuracy to increase the score. Defense so airtight so far (6 goals conceded at kick-off), the Aiglons rearguard exploded this afternoon. With his nerves on edge, Jean-Clair Todibo was logically excluded due to a fight with Samuel Grandsir, who was also sent to the locker room earlier than expected (81st). Mass was said even if the visitors saved the honor thanks to young Tom Louchet, scorer for the first time as a professional (3-1, 91st).
Second setback of the season, away, for Nice which will host Lens on the last day of the first leg on Wednesday. Le Havre returns to victory and ranks in 9th place before the rest of the weekend.
