Ligue 1 Preview: Nice Desperate for Rebound Against Angers Amidst Haise's Job Security Concerns
After suffering six consecutive defeats, Nice will host Angers at Allianz Riviera in a crucial Ligue 1 encounter. Nice manager Franck Haise's position is under immense pressure due to poor results and fan unrest, while visitors Angers look to continue their relatively stable recent form.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This Ligue 1 (officially Ligue 1 McDonald's due to sponsorship) Matchday 15 fixture on December 7, 2025, is a must-win for home side Nice. After 14 matchdays, Nice currently sits 10th in the league with 17 points, seven points adrift of a European qualification spot. The team is in a severe slump, having lost six successive matches across all competitions, including four in Ligue 1 and two in the Europa League. This poor run has placed immense pressure on manager Franck Haise. Reports also indicate fan unrest, with the team bus being attacked and players physically assaulted, leading to low morale within the squad. In contrast, visitors Angers are currently 12th with 16 points, just one point behind Nice and five points clear of the relegation zone, presenting a more optimistic picture. Although they recently lost to league leaders Lens, Angers had collected points in five of their previous seven Ligue 1 affairs and secured two wins in their last three matches prior to that defeat, demonstrating resilience. The outcome of this match will directly impact both teams' league standings, particularly for Nice, where a victory might alleviate immediate pressure, while a loss could seal Haise's fate.
Recent Form
Nice's recent form is deeply concerning. They have suffered six consecutive defeats across all competitions, including a 3-1 loss to Lorient in Ligue 1. In Ligue 1, Nice's last five matches have resulted in one win and four losses (WLLLL), and they have conceded goals in six consecutive games, including two successive home defeats. This poor defensive record is a major issue, having conceded 26 goals in their first 14 matches, making them one of the teams with the most goals conceded in the league. Angers, despite a recent 1-2 loss to Lens, showed signs of recovery with prior wins against Auxerre and Toulouse. Angers' last five Ligue 1 matches reflect a mixed form of one win, two draws, and two losses (DLWWL), and they have scored in three consecutive games. Away from home, Angers has secured only one win in their last seven games but has shown recent improvement, with a chance to achieve consecutive away victories in this match.
Key Players & Injury News
For Nice, forwards Terem Moffi and Jérémie Boga are primary attacking threats, but reports indicate they are on sick leave following a fan attack, making their availability a significant question mark for this match. Other key players include midfielders Sofiane Diop and Hicham Boudaoui, and experienced defenders Dante and Melvin Bard, who are also crucial. Defender Jonathan Clauss is also an important part of the team's backline. Angers' key players are expected to include central midfielders Himad Abdelli, Yassine Belkhdim, and Haris Belkebla. In defense, Carlens Arcus and Jordan Lefort are important mainstays. Regarding injury news, specific details are difficult to ascertain given the future date of the match. However, the situation with Moffi and Boga is undoubtedly a severe blow to Nice, and the team will be closely monitoring their and other players' fitness. The final squad and lineup will be confirmed closer to match day.