OGC Nice and Hicham Boudaoui fall back into old habits | OneFootball

Europe gets off to a rough start for OGC Nice and Boudaoui

OGC Nice and Hicham Boudaoui fall back into old habits

Against AS Roma (a 2-1 defeat), Hicham Boudaoui's OGC Nice had nevertheless shown some encouraging signs. For the first half-hour, the Aiglons managed to contain the Italian powerhouse and looked dangerous on the counter. But right after the break, an individual mistake shattered that fragile balance. Punished by Roma’s clinical finishing, the Niçois quickly lost their grip on the game. A late surge in the closing minutes, marked by a determination to get back on level terms, wasn’t enough to avoid another European disappointment.

A worrying collective record

The analysis of the performances confirms an overall lack of cutting edge. Hicham Boudaoui, representing a midfield often overrun, failed to make the expected impact. His performance, rated just 4 out of 10, reflects the team’s overall impotence, with the squad’s highest rating not exceeding 6. It would be unfair to single out the Algerian alone: the entire unit looked fragile, lacking technical precision and consistency in the duels. This collective failure reignites doubts about OGC Nice’s ability to compete on the continental stage.

A campaign already under pressure

With three draws and five defeats in their previous Europa League campaign, Nice carry a painful record. The heavy blow dealt by Roma is a stark reminder that the Côte d’Azur club must raise their game if they want to avoid another nightmarish campaign. The current momentum is worrying: five defeats in all competitions, shaken confidence, and glaring mental frailty. Yet, not everything is lost. The fighting spirit shown in the final fifteen minutes could be a foundation—if it’s transformed into consistency.

The message is clear: Boudaoui’s OGC Nice cannot afford any more mistakes. To restore the reputation of French football in Europe and avoid an early exit, Francesco Farioli’s men must show unwavering discipline and intensity in the matches to come. Otherwise, this new continental campaign risks mirroring the last: dull, frustrating, and far below their stated ambitions.