News Focus
- OGC Nice will compete in a relegation play-off against AS Saint-Étienne after finishing the campaign in the drop zone
- Club co-president Jean-Pierre Rivere described the current season as a disaster following Sunday’s stalemate with FC Metz
- Rivere insists the upcoming Coupe de France final against RC Lens is insignificant compared to the fight for Ligue 1 survival
- Ugly scenes marred the draw with Metz as angry supporters invaded the pitch, risking stadium closure for the play-off
- The Riviera club must win two matches against Saint-Étienne to secure their place in France’s top flight next season
OGC Nice co-president Jean-Pierre Rivere has described the campaign as a disaster after his team were pushed into a relegation battle following a goalless draw with FC Metz on Sunday.
The stalemate confirmed that the Riviera outfit must face AS Saint-Étienne in a promotion-relegation play-off. Nice must win this two-legged tie to secure their spot in France’s top division for next season.
Rivere, who resumed his post at the club in December, spoke to the media shortly after the final whistle. He admitted that the current situation is grim and that the club faces a serious fight to avoid the drop.
The club chief also downplayed the significance of the upcoming Coupe de France final against RC Lens. He insisted that the cup showpiece in Paris holds no importance compared to the battle for survival.
“The French Cup is no longer our focus,” Rivere explained. “Our priority is remaining in Ligue 1. We have two matches to play, and we must display a different mentality and approach. As long as we have hope, we must stand behind the squad.”
Rivere also condemned the behaviour of supporters who invaded the playing surface after the Metz match. The incident could lead to sanctions from the football authorities, potentially forcing Nice to play the crucial play-off without fans present.
The club reached the cup final earlier this season, but that achievement has been completely overshadowed by their poor league form. All attention now turns to the decisive clashes with Saint-Étienne.