Nice vs Lille
Ligue 1
Friday
11th August 2023
Allianz Riviera
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Gameweek 1 Ligue 1 fixture between Nice and Lille.
Nice vs Lille: Preview
OGC Nice form analysis
Nice ended the season with a mixed run of form, winning 2, drawing 1 and losing 2 of their final 5 league matches.
Their wins came against Rennes (2-1) and Lyon (3-1), showing they were capable of beating top half opposition. However, their defeats to Strasbourg (0-2) and narrowly avoiding defeat to relegation battlers Toulouse (0-0) highlighted inconsistencies.
Nice’s attacking form was reasonable, scoring 6 goals in their last 5 matches. Laborde and Moffi provided a threat upfront, each scoring 2 goals. However, they were kept scoreless by Toulouse which shows they struggled breaking down stubborn defenses.
Defensively there were concerns, conceding 6 goals in 5 games. The clean sheet against Toulouse was promising but they conceded 2 or more goals in 3 of the games, pointing to vulnerabilities at the back.
Home form was decent with 2 wins from 3 games. Their away record was poor though, losing both matches without scoring. This reliance on home comforts could be an issue next season if not addressed.
Overall, the run-in showed Nice’s quality in attack with their front two looking dangerous. However, inconsistencies in performances and struggles defensively highlighted areas that will need improving if they are to push on next season. Addressing their away record should also be a priority.
Lille form analysis
Lille ended the season with mixed form, winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 1 of their final 5 league matches.
Their wins came against relegation threatened Nantes (2-1) and mid-table Troyes (1-1). However, their defeat to Marseille (1-2) showed they struggled against the league’s top teams.
Lille’s attack relied heavily on Jonathan David, who scored 4 of their 5 goals including two penalties. They failed to score in 2 of the 5 games indicating inconsistencies in attack.
Defensively Lille were reasonably solid, conceding just 3 goals across the 5 games. The clean sheets against Monaco and Troyes were encouraging.
Their home and away form was identical – 1 win, 1 defeat and 2 draws in their last 5. This shows they struggled to pick up victories consistently both home and away.
Overall, Lille’s form was inconsistent going into the summer. While they proved difficult to beat at times, their reliance on David for goals and struggles to break down organized defenses were worrying signs. Maintaining defensive stability while improving their attacking fluency will be key next season.
Nice vs Lille: Predictions
Both clubs finished last season on largely a positive note. However, Lille have struggled on the road towards the end of the season. Nice, on the other hand, were at times unbeatable at home last season. Hence, they are unlikely to start the season off with a loss.
Neither team has shown the tendency to keep clean sheets. Nor have they ended up without getting on the score sheet. It is unlikely we will see a clean sheet registered.
