ASSE’s lineup for the Ligue 1 playoff decider against Nice

Saint-Étienne heads to Nice on Friday evening for the second leg of the Ligue 1 playoffs. After a goalless first leg, the Greens must secure a victory on the Côte d’Azur to clinch promotion to France’s top flight. Philippe Montanier has a clear vision for his starting XI in this decisive clash.

Following a lackluster goalless draw at home, where tension overshadowed quality, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Nice, facing elimination, will need to attack with purpose, while Saint-Étienne must shed their recent defensive mindset to break down a disciplined opposition.

Saint-Étienne’s injury concerns ahead of the showdown

Saint-Étienne’s medical room remains a concern ahead of this high-stakes trip. 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 unfit for selection. Djylian N’Guessan, already absent in the first leg, adds to the absentees.

On a positive note, Florian Tardieu is nearing a return after nearly three months on the sidelines. The midfielder, who will leave the club this summer, could feature one last time before potentially securing a move abroad. Ben Old, the New Zealander, also returns to the squad after missing the first leg, though his availability may be short-lived due to international commitments.

Defensive reshuffle on the cards

Gautier Larsonneur delivered another clean sheet against Nice, and the goalkeeper will be aiming to replicate that performance in Nice. The backline, which held firm in the first leg, faces a sterner test with Elye Wahi, now back from suspension, likely to lead the attack.

Philippe Montanier is expected to stick with the defensive pairing of Le Cardinal and Bernauer. The uncertainty lies in the full-back positions, where Ben Old’s return from injury raises questions about his fitness to start. Dennis Appiah, who deputized last time, suffered a muscular issue, prompting a reshuffle that saw Joao Ferreira and Kévin Pédro step in. With Old likely to slot in at left-back, Pédro may occupy the right flank.

Midfield stability and attacking uncertainty

Luan Gadegbeku and Abdoulaye Kanté are set for another start, having formed a reliable partnership in recent outings. Augustine Boakye, returning from suspension, will likely take up the playmaking role before joining the Ghanaian national team.

The attack remains the biggest question mark. Irvin Cardona, once a reliable goal threat, has struggled for form and confidence, while Zuriko Davitashvili has lacked creativity in his recent displays. Lucas Stassin, deployed as a lone striker, will need to provide more than just physical presence to unlock Nice’s defense.

The lineup announced by Montanier must deliver one final push to secure Saint-Étienne’s place in Ligue 1.