NICE, France — OGC Nice secured a narrow 2-1 victory against Angers SCO in their Ligue 1 clash on April 20, 2025, at the Allianz Riviera. The hosts took the lead with a stunning header from Pablo Rosario in the 35th minute, while Ali Abdi further extended their advantage just after halftime.
Angers fought back to score in the 51st minute with a goal from Yassin Belkhdim but couldn’t find the equalizer despite a spirited performance in the dying minutes of the game.
This victory came after Nice’s previous draw against Strasbourg, which ended 2-2. Coach Didier Digard expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, noting, “We needed this win to boost our morale after a tough stretch.” Nice had entered the match winless in their last five outings, making this victory crucial for their Champions League aspirations.
Angers, following a win against Montpellier, had hoped to continue their momentum. The visitors showcased resilience as they pressed forward after Belkhdim’s goal, yet they were unable to break through Nice’s defense.
The match was filled with moments of intensity, highlighted by key saves from both goalkeepers. Nice’s goalkeeper, Marcin Bulka, made several crucial stops, including a critical save from Jim Allevinah’s shot late in the game. “We had to fight for every inch of the pitch, and the boys delivered,” Bulka said post-match.
Angers’ coach, Jean-Louis Gasset, lamented missed opportunities, stating, “We had chances to level the game, but we just couldn’t convert, and that cost us.” Despite the loss, Gasset remains optimistic about his team’s fight against relegation.
Both teams had substitutions aimed at switching up their strategies as the game progressed. Nice’s Evann Guessand came on for Gaëtan Laborde, seeking to add fresh legs to the attacking phase. Meanwhile, Angers made tactical changes, introducing Ibrahima Niane to bolster their forward options.
As the match entered the final minutes, Angers pushed hard, searching for an equalizer. They earned several free kicks and corner opportunities, but Nice’s defense held firm. The fourth official signaled five minutes of added time, but despite the relentless pressure, Angers couldn’t find the back of the net.
In the aftermath, Nice is now second in the league, vying for a place in European competition, while Angers remains on the brink of relegation but will look to regroup in their upcoming matches.
