OGC Nice`s struggles in the UEFA Europa League continued as they lost their opening match 2-1 to Gian Piero Gasperini`s AS Roma, echoing their winless run from the previous season.
The first half saw both teams adopt a cautious approach, resulting in a largely uneventful period. While Gian Piero Gasperini`s previous team, Atalanta, was known for attacking football, his current Roma squad displayed a more pragmatic, almost stagnant style. Neither side managed to create significant scoring opportunities, with Gianluca Mancini`s disallowed header being the sole moment of note.
The match dramatically changed in a decisive three-minute period in the second half. Halftime substitute Lorenzo Pellegrini proved instrumental, delivering a precise cross that Evan Ndicka headed in, having evaded his marker. Just moments later, Gianluca Mancini extended Roma`s lead, volleying home a cross from Kostas Tsimikas. Post-match, Nice coach Franck Haise acknowledged, “It is a five-minute spell that we regret, for sure.”
Haise noted that his team “defended well for 90-95% of the game,” but the brief lapse was ultimately decisive. Nice found a late lifeline when Niccolo Pisilli conceded a penalty by foolishly fouling Antoine Mendy near the touchline. Terem Moffi converted the spot-kick, offering a glimmer of hope, but Nice failed to create any further threats on Mile Svilar`s goal.
Roma secured a 2-1 victory. Haise emphasized the discernible gap in quality between the two teams, a disparity that was also apparent during Nice`s previous Europa League campaign, which concluded without a single win. Nice will be keen to avoid a similar outcome this season.
OGC Nice Player Ratings
Yehvann Diouf – 3: The former Reims goalkeeper`s errant pass initiated the corner that led to Roma`s first goal. He might also be faulted for the disallowed Mancini goal in the first half. Diouf has yet to replicate his strong form from Reims at his new club.
Dante – 5
Juma Bah – 5
Antoine Mendy – 4
Melvin Bard – 5
Hicham Bouadoui – 6: This energetic midfielder was crucial in navigating Roma`s press during the first half. His excellent spatial awareness helped Nice establish control, especially early on. He was the most vital component of an otherwise functional midfield.
Charles Vanhoutte – 5
Tom Louchet – 5
Jérémie Boga – 4
Kevin Carlos – 4: Carlos began promisingly, effectively receiving long passes, but his impact diminished. Roma`s aggressive and physical defenders largely nullified the Spanish forward, who, as Haise noted, also lacked sufficient support from teammates.
Morgan Sanson – 5
AS Roma Selected Player Ratings
Lorenzo Pellegrini – 7: The game`s pivotal figure. Introduced at halftime, the Italian midfielder instantly transformed the match. He brought much-needed energy and creativity, qualities that his predecessor, Stephan El Shaarawy, had failed to provide. Pellegrini`s technical prowess and set-piece delivery enabled Roma to seize control early in the second half, decisively shifting the momentum in their favor.
