Saint-Étienne vs Nice: how to watch the first leg of the Ligue 1/L2 playoffs

The stage is set for a high-stakes clash as two heavyweights of French football battle it out for the final spot in next season’s Ligue 1. On Tuesday 26 May, OGC Nice will face AS Saint-Étienne in the first leg of the Ligue 1/L2 playoffs at the iconic Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. Kick-off is at 20:45 local time.

When is the Saint-Étienne vs Nice playoff first leg?

Mark your calendars: the opening duel takes place this Tuesday, 26 May, with the referee’s whistle set to blow at 20:45. The return leg will follow on Friday, 29 May in Nice, though this one will be played behind closed doors due to recent crowd disturbances at the Allianz Riviera.

One key factor looming over the match is the late scheduling of the playoffs. Originally planned earlier in the month, the fixtures had to be pushed back after Nice reached the Coupe de France final. This timing conflict means clubs must now release international players for global duty, adding another layer of unpredictability to the line-ups.

For the first leg in Saint-Étienne, Nice is expected to field most of its international stars. Elye Wahi, however, will be absent due to suspension. Come Friday, the picture may look very different.

Where to watch Saint-Étienne vs Nice playoff first leg live on TV and radio

Football fans can catch all the action from the playoff first leg on two major platforms. The match will be broadcast simultaneously on Ligue 1+ and beIN Sports, ensuring broad coverage for viewers. For those on the go, live commentary will also be available on RMC radio and via the RMC Sport app and website.

The stakes couldn’t be higher: only one team will walk away with Ligue 1 status, while the other will be relegated to Ligue 2. With both clubs having recently appointed new managers—Philippe Montanier at Saint-Étienne—the stage is perfectly set for a dramatic night of football.