Europe

“Whilst it’s still mathematically possible”

With eyes now turned to the visit of Guingamp, the Niçois still have the possibility of finishing in a position that would lead to the Europa League. With five days to go until the end of 2018-19, here are the things to keep in mind.  

Three precious points up in smoke. The disappointing result of last weekend clearly slowed down Les Aiglons’ progress in the race for Europe. “But that doesn’t mean that it is over, far from that. Whilst it’s still mathematically possible, we will still believe. We have the ability to do so. We will lift our heads to take on Guingamp“, reassured Malang Sarr after the defeat at the hands of Stade Malherbe (0-1).

15 points to play for 

There are only five league matches to go, so a total of 15 points to play for. Currently sitting in 8th place with 48 points, Le Gym have an 8 point deficit on 4th place, occupied by Saint-Etienne (where Les Rouge et Noir will play in the penultimate game of L1). And only 6 points less than Marseille, the current holder of 5th place and a potential European spot.

The support of the fans

Of the final five games of the season, the Allianz Riviera will play host to three matches: the side currently in last place, Guingamp (on Sunday at 3pm), Nantes and Monaco for the final game of the season. An important factor, given that Nice are currently in good shape at home (7 wins and 3 draws for only one defeat in the last 11). 

The schedule for Week 35

On Saturday evening (after the final of the Coupe de France which sees Stade Rennais face PSG), the contenders for Europe will know for sure how many European tickets will be on offer (see rules below).

The rules

How many European places?

Ligue 1 offers four European spots (three in the Champions League and one for the Europa League). The domestic cups provide two further European tickets (one each), providing that the winners have not already qualified through the league. 

In what scenario would 5th place qualify?

  • If Paris beat Rennes in the final of the Coupe de France
  • If Rennes (11th, 43 pts) win the Coupe de France and finish in the top four of Ligue 1.
  • If Strasbourg (10th, 44 pts), winners of the Coupe de la Ligue, finish in the top four

In what scenario would 6th place qualify?

  • If Paris win the Coupe de France and Strasbourg, the winners of the Coupe de la Ligue, finish in one of the top five in Ligue 1.
  • If Rennes lift the Coupe de France and Les Rennais and Les Strasbourgeois finish in the top five.