Nice st Étienne clash in crucial Ligue 1 playoff rematch

Nice vs Saint-Étienne: a pivotal playoff clash for Ligue 1 survival

The second leg of the relegation playoffs between Nice and Saint-Étienne at the Allianz Riviera on May 30 promises high stakes for both sides as they battle for a spot in France’s top flight for the 2026/27 season.

For Nice, the season has been a rollercoaster of missed opportunities. After starting with ambitions of European qualification, the team from the French Riviera now finds itself fighting to avoid relegation. The 0-0 draw in the first leg at Geoffroy-Guichard leaves Nice with a slight edge, thanks to the home advantage in the decisive return match.

Under the leadership of manager Claude Puel, the pressure has mounted as fans voice their frustration over the team’s inconsistent performances. With a current 16th-place finish in Ligue 1, Nice’s path to survival hinges on a strong showing at home.