Stéphanois aim for Ligue 1 return in must-win nice clash

The ASSE head to the Côte d’Azur this Friday evening with a clear objective: secure victory against Nice and clinch promotion to Ligue 1. After a goalless draw in the first leg, the stakes couldn’t be higher as Philippe Montanier‘s side must now impose their game on the road to advance.

Injury updates and tactical considerations

The ASSE squad is facing a depleted bench ahead of this decisive clash. As anticipated, Mahmoud Jaber, Paul Eymard and Chico Lamba remain sidelined, while Nadir El Jamali continues his recovery from a knee injury and is not yet match-fit. Djylian N’Guessan, who missed the first leg, will also be unavailable once more.

On a brighter note, Florian Tardieu is nearing a return after nearly three months on the sidelines. The midfielder, playing his final weeks at the club before his contract expires, could feature in Nice. Meanwhile, Ben Old has recovered in time for the match, though his inclusion may be short-lived as he prepares to join his national team for World Cup duty.

A defensive reshuffle in the air

Gautier Larsonneur delivered another clean sheet against Nice, keeping his place between the posts. The defensive pairing of Le Cardinal and Bernauer is expected to hold firm again, though the return of Elye Wahi from suspension adds extra attacking threat for the hosts.

The big question lies in the full-back positions. Ben Old, back from injury, may start on the left flank, pushing Joao Ferreira to the right. If Kevin Pédro retains his place, he could shift to the opposite side to accommodate the returning defender.

Midfield dynamics and attacking urgency

The midfield duo of Luan Gadegbeku and Abdoulaye Kanté are set to continue their partnership, having started together in three consecutive matches. Augustine Boakye, now free of suspension, will likely dictate play from the number 10 role before departing for international duty.

The attacking department remains the biggest concern. Irvin Cardona, once a match-winner, has struggled for form and confidence, while Zuriko Davitashvili has lacked the creativity expected of him. Both players will need to raise their game to unlock Nice’s defense. Lucas Stassin, deployed as the lone striker, will also be under pressure to deliver.

The outcome of this match will determine whether the ASSE finally ends their Ligue 2 campaign with promotion—or faces another season in the second tier.