Nice vs Le Mans – Ligue 1 Matchday 3 Preview
Saturday, 5 September 2026 | Allianz Riviera | Kick-off 20:45 CEST (19:45 BST)
Two sides still searching for their first win of the 2026/27 Ligue 1 season meet on the Côte d’Azur. Nice (1 point from 2 games) have yet to score a goal this campaign and sit near the bottom after a 0-0 draw with Lorient and a 3-0 loss at Paris FC. Newly promoted Le Mans also have just one point but have shown more attacking threat, scoring four goals in their first two matches (2-2 vs Brest, 2-3 loss at Rennes).
Form & Context
- Nice: Winless and goalless after two games. Struggling for creativity and confidence following a difficult previous season, but home advantage at the Allianz Riviera remains a key factor.
- Le Mans: Competitive in both outings so far. Forward Louis Mafouta is in strong form (3 goals already) and the side has looked dangerous on the counter.
Le Mans are seeking their first top-flight win in over 16 years. Recent head-to-head meetings have been limited, with the sides last meeting in a 2019 cup tie.
Team News
Nice
Missing several players: Laurent Abergel (ACL), Morgan Sanson, Ali Abdi, Moïse Bombito (leg), and Mohamed Amoura. Salis Abdul Samed and Hicham Boudaoui are doubtful. Axel Witsel is available in midfield.
Le Mans
Djibril Sidibé is suspended. Nicolas Kocik (ankle), Samuel Yohou, Erwan Colas, and Yasser Larouci are injured. Louis Mafouta is expected to lead the line.
Predicted Lineups
- Nice: Diouf; Mandza, Ndayishimiye, Abdelmonem; Clauss, Coulibaly, Witsel, Jansson; Hein, Diop; Wahi
- Le Mans: Hatfout; Eyoum, Boissé, Voyer; Lauray; Buades, Vercruysse, Bourabaa, Calodat; Gueye, Mafouta
Prediction
Nice 2-1 Le Mans
Despite their goalless start, Nice have the quality and home advantage to finally break their duck. The Allianz Riviera crowd and superior individual talent should help the hosts grind out a hard-fought first win of the season against a dangerous but still adapting Le Mans side.