Nice-Saint-Etienne
Nice hosts Saint-Etienne in a match from the 22nd round of the French Ligue 1. The match is going to be played on Sunday afternoon in the city of Nice.
Nice is 6th in the Ligue 1 standings with 31 points won so far. They have a record of 9 wins, 4 draws and 8 defeats. In their last five matches, Nice is performing in a solid way, being unbeaten. They have won three times and made two draws, including against the champion Monaco in the last round.
Nice started the new season with an ambition to qualify for the Europa League at least, but now they are trailing on 12 points behind the 4th Monaco. Now this goal looks difficult to be achieved, based on the team’s performance since the start of the season.
Saint-Etienne is having serious problems since the start of the season. They are 14th in the Ligue 1 standings with just 23 points won so far. The team’s record so far is 6 wins, 5 draws and 10 defeats. In their last five games, Saint-Etienne lost four times and won only once – against Toulouse at home.
Based on overall quality, position in the table and current form, Nice is the big favourite. Especially with playing at home, too. Although they do not look as strong as they were last season, Nice continue to perform in a decent way.
Mario Balotelli is Nice’s main striker since the start of the season. Super Mario has scored 12 goals in Ligue 1 this season, which makes them one of Ligue 1’s top strikers. Nice will continue to rely on the Italian forward for bringing goals.
Saint-Etienne’s best goalscorer this season is the 21-years old Jonathan Bamba. The youngster has scored 5 goals in Ligue 1 this season.