The ASSE head to Nice this Friday evening for the second leg of the Ligue 1 playoffs. Following a goalless first leg at home, the Greens must secure a victory on the Côte d’Azur to clinch promotion to France’s top flight. Philippe Montanier’s starting XI for this decisive encounter is now in sharp focus.

A battle against the odds

The match at Geoffroy-Guichard ended in frustration, with ASSE failing to find the net for the second consecutive home game. The stakes were palpable, but neither side could break the deadlock. Tonight, the Greens must shed their cautious approach against a Nice side with everything to lose in this two-legged tie.

Injuries and returns shape Montanier’s choices

The ASSE medical room remains a concern ahead of the trip. Mahmoud Jaber, Paul Eymard, and Chico Lamba are unavailable for the remainder of the season, while Nadir El Jamali continues his rehabilitation following a knee injury and will not feature. The absence of Djylian N’Guessan, who missed the first leg, adds to the challenges.

A glimmer of hope comes with Florian Tardieu, who has returned to action after nearly three months out. The midfielder, out of contract at season’s end, could make his final appearance for the club this evening. Meanwhile, Ben Old returns to the squad after missing the first leg, though his availability may be short-lived as he prepares to join his national team for the World Cup.

Defensive reshuffle expected

Gautier Larsonneur delivered another clean sheet against Nice, and the goalkeeper will hope to replicate that performance in Nice. The defense held firm, but Elye Wahi’s return from suspension adds a new threat that Montanier must counter. Le Cardinal and Bernauer are likely to start in defense, though uncertainty looms over the full-back positions.

Ben Old’s fitness remains a question mark, with Dennis Appiah having played on the right flank in the first leg after a muscular issue. If Old starts, he is likely to occupy the left-back role, shifting Joao Ferreira to the right and Kévin Pédro to left-back.

Midfield stability sought

Luan Gadegbeku and Abdoulaye Kanté are expected to retain their spots, having formed a reliable partnership in recent outings. Augustine Boakye, fresh from suspension, will likely orchestrate the attack, though his departure to the Ghanaian national team looms.

Attacking frailties to be addressed

ASSE’s attack has struggled to break down stubborn defenses in recent weeks, with Irvin Cardona—once a key player—finding form elusive. The Maltese forward’s contribution will be critical if the Greens are to progress. Zuriko Davitashvili, despite his flair, has lacked consistency, while Lucas Stassin is set to lead the line in Nice.

The pressure is immense, but the task is clear: victory in Nice means promotion to Ligue 1.