The stakes couldn’t be higher. The OGC Nice have been hit with severe sanctions by the French Football Federation (LFP) just days before their Ligue 1-Ligue 2 playoff showdown against AS Saint-Étienne. Last Sunday’s disappointing draw against Metz sealed the team’s fate, prompting furious supporters to storm the Allianz Riviera pitch, hurl flares, and cause widespread damage.

The LFP’s disciplinary board has come down hard on the Côte d’Azur club, imposing a double sanction: two matches behind closed doors at the Allianz Riviera, one of which is suspended. The playoff return leg, set to take place in Nice on May 29, will now be played without any spectators. Meanwhile, the first leg in Saint-Étienne on May 26 remains unaffected by the sanctions.

International players could miss the playoffs

The situation is further complicated by a potential loss of key international players. FIFA has reportedly rejected the request for a special exemption to allow Nice and Saint-Étienne players called up for the upcoming World Cup to participate in the playoffs. This could deprive both teams of critical talent during the decisive matches.

Despite the setbacks, Nice must now regroup and prepare for two high-pressure matches that will determine their future in Ligue 1. The club’s leadership faces a daunting challenge in maintaining morale and focus amid these disciplinary and player availability crises.