The ASSE face a decisive challenge this Friday evening as they travel to Nice for the second leg of the Ligue 1 promotion playoffs. After securing a goalless draw in the first leg, the Greens must now secure a victory on the Côte d’Azur to clinch their spot in France’s top flight. Philippe Montanier’s final starting XI has been revealed, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter.
The ASSE’s injury situation ahead of the showdown
Philippe Montanier enters the second leg with a depleted squad. Mahmoud Jaber, Paul Eymard, and Chico Lamba are ruled out for the season, while Nadir El Jamali continues his recovery from a knee injury and remains unavailable. Djylian N’Guessan, who missed the first leg, is also sidelined once again.
On a brighter note, Florian Tardieu is nearing a return after nearly three months on the sidelines. The midfielder, whose contract expires soon, could make his final appearance for the Greens in this crucial match. Ben Old, the New Zealander, has also recovered from injury and is back in the squad, though his availability may be limited due to international commitments.
A defensive reshuffle in the offing
Gautier Larsonneur delivered another clean sheet against Nice, and the goalkeeper will be looking to replicate his performance in the second leg. The defense, which held firm in the first meeting, faces a new challenge with Elye Wahi set to return from suspension. The Ivorian striker could pose a significant threat to the ASSE backline.
Ben Old’s fitness is a key question, as he may feature in the starting lineup. If he does, the team could see a shift in formation, with Kevin Pédro potentially moving to the right flank while Old occupies the left. This tactical adjustment would allow the youngster to make his presence felt in a more advanced role.
Midfield dynamics and attacking solutions
Luan Gadegbeku and Abdoulaye Kanté are expected to retain their places in the heart of the midfield, looking to build on their strong performance in the first leg. Augustine Boakye, returning from suspension, will likely take up the playmaking role, providing creativity and vision in the final third.
The attack remains the biggest concern for the ASSE. Irvin Cardona, once a reliable goal threat, has struggled for form, while Zuriko Davitashvili and Lucas Stassin will need to step up if the Greens are to break down Nice’s defense. All eyes will be on Cardona to rediscover his scoring touch and propel his team to Ligue 1.
With nothing but a win on Friday evening, the ASSE’s lineup is designed for one purpose: securing promotion to France’s elite division.
