The fate of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 for the 2026-2027 season hangs in the balance as Nice and Saint-Étienne battle for the final promotion spot. The loser will face relegation to the second tier, making Friday evening’s return leg at Allianz Riviera a must-watch showdown.
High stakes for both sides
The stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner will secure their place in France’s top football division, while the loser will drop down to Ligue 2. After a dull 0-0 draw in the first leg at Geoffroy-Guichard, everything remains to be played for in Nice.
Empty stadium, high tension
The return leg will take place in an unusually quiet Allianz Riviera. Following fan disturbances after the last Ligue 1 match against Metz, Nice have been handed severe sanctions. The club faces two matches behind closed doors and a suspended point deduction for next season, meaning this high-pressure encounter will be played out without supporters.
While Saint-Étienne have yo-yoed between divisions in recent years (relegated in 2022, promoted in 2024, relegated in 2025), Nice have enjoyed uninterrupted top-flight football since 2001-2002. A return to Ligue 2 would end a 24-year stay in the elite for the Côte d’Azur club.
Playoff rules explained
In the event of a draw, the match will go into 30 minutes of extra time. If the deadlock persists, a penalty shootout will decide the winner. Gone are the days of the away goals rule—every goal now counts equally in this decisive clash.
When and where to watch
The kickoff is scheduled for 8:45 PM local time. The entire match will be broadcast live on beIN Sports 1, offering fans a clear path to witness this pivotal moment in French football.
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