From dreaming of a Champions League spot at the season’s outset to facing the nightmare of relegation on its final day, Nice’s campaign has been a rollercoaster. A poor performance on Friday evening could condemn the four-time French champions to Ligue 2 for the first time in 24 years. The return leg against Saint-Étienne—drawn 0-0 from the first match—will determine their fate. Yet the Gym has rarely begun a more turbulent final chapter.

The club will play in an empty Allianz Riviera. While this may ease the weight of public pressure, local authorities anticipate potential unrest if results go against them. Two weeks after pitch invasions marred the 0-0 draw with Metz—causing €600,000 in damage—authorities have banned supporters from stadium surroundings and training facilities. A rare home measure, but one deemed necessary amid a storm of online abuse targeting defender Ali Abdi.

Ali Abdi caught between club loyalty and national duty

The Tunisian international’s absence has dominated headlines. Torn between Nice’s desire to keep their squad fully focused for the season finale and the Tunisian FA’s relentless calls for his early return—even booking three flights to North Africa since Saturday—Abdi departed. His stated goal: to resolve visa issues for a potential move to the United States. The club hinted at sanctions but had offered solutions to manage both administrative tasks and playoff participation. Yet in his camp, concerns grew over his World Cup preparations (June 11–July 19). By evening, the club confirmed: «the player is determined to return and support the team on Friday.»

Elye Wahi primed to lead the charge

Absent Hicham Boudaoui (concussion protocol), Elye Wahi stands ready. Fresh off suspension, the Ivorian striker spent the week refining his preparation, reviewing Saint-Étienne’s defensive patterns with his personal staff. A rallying cry from the ultras after their Coupe de France defeat resonated: «Save us, we’re counting on you.» In this pressure cooker, Wahi could be Nice’s X-factor.

In case of a draw after 90 minutes, extra time and penalties await. The stakes have never been higher for a club fighting to preserve its top-flight status.