Nice are currently in a strong position to secure a Champions League spot for next season and will look to further solidify their chances as they host mid-table Auxerre at the Allianz Riviera on March 14, 2025. Africa Football editor Bill Eshun looks into the upcoming Ligue 1 match.
Key Facts
- Nice have recorded the third-most wins in Ligue 1 this season (13).
- Auxerre have a negative goal difference of two.
Match Overview
The Ligue 1 title race appears to be all but decided, with PSG holding a significant lead over their rivals.
However, the battle for a top-four finish remains open, and Nice are one of the strongest contenders, currently sitting third in the standings with 46 points. Their last outing against Lyon ended in disappointment, but they still have the quality to bounce back, especially against a mid-table side like Auxerre.
Mensah and Elisha Owusu in Action
Black Stars duo Gideon Mensah and Elisha Owusu are expected to feature for Auxerre this weekend.
Elisha Owusu has been a key presence in midfield, completing the fourth-most passes in the team (595), the third-most blocks (29), and the second-most interceptions (39).
Related article: Elisha Owusu’s Rising Salary: A Look at His Career Growth at AJ Auxerre
Meanwhile, Gideon Mensah has showcased his attacking threat from the full-back position, recording 1.3 expected assists—the fifth-highest in the team—while also leading the squad in interceptions (40). Any chance of success for Auxerre will likely depend on the performances of these two.
The Odds
Nice’s chances of winning are currently priced at 1.64 according to 1xBet, while Auxerre’s odds stand at 5.64. A draw is priced at 4.40.
Prediction
Matches between these two teams have typically been tight, with three draws in their last five encounters. A similar outcome is expected in this fixture.
Predicted Scoreline: Nice 1-1 Auxerre
