The Aiglons have successfully defended their territory. OGC Nice confirmed their position in the top flight by winning the Ligue 1/Ligue 2 play-off return leg at the Allianz Riviera on Friday, May 29. The match ended 3-1 against AS Saint-Etienne, providing a stark contrast to the dull scoreless draw seen in the first leg three days prior.

Late drama at the Allianz Riviera

The game burst into life in the final ten minutes. After Zuriko Davitashvili converted a penalty to level the score for the visitors, the celebration for the Greens was short-lived. Just two minutes later, 19-year-old Kail Boudache (81st minute) put the hosts back in front. The victory was then cemented by Elye Wahi, who struck twice in the closing stages (87th and 90+2 minutes) to trigger celebrations on the Nice bench and throughout the stadium.

Finishing 16th in the regular season, Nice avoids the drop alongside Metz and Nantes. This survival ensures the club will compete in its 25th consecutive season in the first division during the 2026-2027 campaign. Conversely, Saint-Etienne, who fell to the second tier following the 2024-2025 season, must prepare for another year in Ligue 2.