Elye Wahi, concluding his loan spell, and Kaïl Boudache, on his way to Lyon, were instrumental in securing OGC Nice’s Ligue 1 survival. Their pivotal contributions came on Friday evening as Nice triumphed 4-1 over Saint-Étienne, a Ligue 2 playoff contender, following a goalless first leg.

A heartfelt embrace with coach Claude Puel, who lifted him joyfully, perfectly encapsulated the moment. Elye Wahi, beaming just like his manager, erupted in celebration after netting Nice’s third goal in the 87th minute. He then added another exquisite strike in the 90+2 minute, definitively sealing the club’s Ligue 1 status against Saint-Étienne in a dominant 4-1 victory. The previous leg had ended 0-0. Overwhelmed with emotion, tears welled up as he addressed reporters. “Achieving such a result at home, even without supporters, is truly extraordinary,” he stated. “I am incredibly proud of myself, and immensely proud of the entire team.”

Even without a crowd, this intense evening in Nice will forever be etched into the history of the Gym. Wahi leaves behind an indelible mark of a highly successful loan spell, having been the cornerstone of their challenging survival campaign. He notched 9 goals across all competitions, revitalizing the Côte d’Azur club’s attacking prowess. Personally, this six-month chapter also offered him a fantastic opportunity to rediscover his vibrant form, as striking as his red braids, specially dyed for this final fixture.

During his tenure at Nice, Wahi earned his call-up to the Ivorian national team and is now preparing to join them for the World Cup. He will return to Frankfurt with a transformed reputation, having dispelled any notions of nonchalance. His commitment and fresh energy were evident to the entire locker room, showcasing a dedicated professional.

Boudache: The Determined Talent

On Friday night, the Allianz Riviera spotlight was also shared by another forward in a unique situation: 19-year-old Kaïl Boudache. Not initially part of the Gym’s plans last summer, having undergone a trial at Braga, nor in December when he rejected offers from Dunkerque (Ligue 2), Boudache remained resolute in his desire to play for his formative club. The dynamic youngster from Nice also experienced a truly memorable start to 2026.

He seized the opportunity presented by the coaching duo of Claude Puel and Julien Sablé to make his mark in January. Boudache showcased his explosive pace and speed, qualities he used to pounce on a crucial attacking ball, converting it into the go-ahead goal for 2-1 in the 81st minute. This pivotal moment may well be remembered as a parting gift to Nice. Following extensive deliberation and uncertainties surrounding Nice’s evolving project, he ultimately decided to accept an offer from Lyon. He is set to sign his first professional contract, a three-year deal, in Lyon on Monday.