Nice clinches Ligue 1 survival with dramatic playoff win over Saint-Étienne
The OGC Nice secured their place in France’s top flight after a thrilling second leg against AS Saint-Étienne, turning a goalless first leg into a 3-1 victory on home soil.
The Niçois avoided relegation after a tense second leg at the Allianz Riviera, where they overcame a dull 0-0 first leg to dominate the return match. The breakthrough came when Zuriko Davitashvili converted a penalty to level the score, followed swiftly by Kail Boudache‘s 19-year-old strike just two minutes later. Elye Wahi then sealed the win with two late goals (87′, 90+2′), sparking wild celebrations among players and staff.
Finishing 16th in the regular season, Nice join Metz and Nantes in securing Ligue 1 status for next season (2026-27). Meanwhile, Saint-Étienne’s 25-year top-flight run is over—the Verts will now compete in Ligue 2 after their 2024-25 relegation.
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