The opening match of the Ligue 1 season between Nice and Toulouse was disappointing, offering a show far from expectations for a summer start on the Côte d’Azur. Despite the initial domination of the Aiglons, the match turned into a physical and unaesthetic confrontation, marked by excessive aggressiveness, airtight defences and imprecise attacks. Individual mistakes, such as a risky control of the niçois goaltender Yehvann Diouf who almost conceded a goal on a goal return, contributed to this sterile and frustrating game. Attempts by individual players such as Clauss, Boudaoui and Bouannani to lighten the situation were not enough.

The second half saw an improvement in the game, with an intensification of the actions and a slight upswing for Toulouse. There were many opportunities on both sides, including Charlie Cresswell’s uncaded shot and Badredine Bouannani’s strike, which almost opened the score for the Touloussains. Despite a conquering face displayed by Nice, the match switched to 90+1’ with a goal by Djibril Sidibé, sealing the defeat of the Aiglons. This error of inattention cost Nice three valuable points, despite the efforts made in the second period.

The reactions of coaches and players confirmed the general disappointment. Yehvann Diouf expressed his disappointment at the loss of points after showing a better face in the second period, highlighting a lack of efficiency in both surfaces. Franck Haise regretted the lack of energy, racing and technical quality after a correct first half, also regretting the lack of concrete opportunities despite the Nice domination. Both men stressed the need to improve technical decryption and field availability to achieve better results in the upcoming games.