Nice vs Angers Match Recap - Dec 7, 2025

Angers Stuns Nice with Gritty 1-0 Victory, Leaving Hosts in Turmoil

Angers' resilience shines through as they secure a crucial 1-0 victory over Nice, further complicating the home side's struggles this season. Yassin Belkhdim's first-half strike proved decisive, marking a continuation of Angers' recent form that has seen them scrape results despite inconsistent performances. This win not only boosts Angers' confidence but also deepens the woes for Nice, who remain mired in a disappointing campaign.

Nice's recent form has been nothing short of disastrous, with this match marking their fifth loss in six outings. The hosts dominated possession with 57%, yet their inability to convert that control into meaningful chances was glaring. Despite leading in total shots (6 to 4) and expected goals (0.60 to 0.59), Nice's attacking inefficiency continues to haunt them. The absence of a clinical edge has become a hallmark of their play, as they struggle to find the back of the net consistently.

Tom Louchet's red card early in the second half compounded Nice's problems, forcing them to play with ten men and further limiting their attacking options. This dismissal reflects a broader issue within the squad: discipline and composure under pressure have been lacking. The defensive frailties that have plagued Nice all season were again evident, as they failed to contain Angers' counter-attacks effectively.

Angers, on the other hand, showcased a tactical discipline that has been pivotal in their recent matches. Their ability to absorb pressure and capitalize on set pieces or transitional moments has become their trademark. Belkhdim, who scored the only goal of the match, has emerged as a key player for Angers, demonstrating his knack for finding space and finishing when it matters most. This victory marks his second goal in consecutive matches, highlighting his growing influence in the squad.

The contrast between Nice's attacking prowess and Angers' defensive solidity was stark. Nice's midfield, led by Morgan Sanson, struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, often resorting to long-range efforts that lacked precision. The hosts managed only one shot on target throughout the match, a statistic that underscores their ongoing struggles in front of goal.

Angers' goalkeeper Hervé Koffi was rarely tested but remained alert when called upon, making a crucial save that preserved his team's lead. His performance exemplified Angers' collective effort to grind out results, even when not at their best. The visitors have now secured two wins in their last three matches, a significant turnaround after a difficult start to the season.

Nice's upcoming fixture against Lens will be critical for their aspirations this season. With only 17 points from 15 matches, they sit precariously in 11th place, just above the relegation zone. The pressure is mounting on coach Franck Armel Gérard Haise to find solutions quickly, as fans grow increasingly frustrated with the team's lack of progress.

Angers will face Nantes next, looking to build on this momentum and climb further up the table. With 16 points from 15 matches, they are just one point behind Nice and can take confidence from their recent performances. The tactical acumen displayed against Nice could serve them well as they aim for consistency in the coming weeks.

This match encapsulated the ongoing narratives for both teams: Nice's struggle for identity and effectiveness in attack versus Angers' determination to fight for every point. As the season progresses, both sides must address their respective challenges if they hope to achieve their goals. For Nice, it is about rediscovering their scoring touch; for Angers, it is about maintaining their newfound resilience and tactical discipline.