A truly goalless encounter unfolded as AS Saint-Étienne, who secured third place in Ligue 2 this season, faced OGC Nice, the 16th-ranked team in Ligue 1, in the initial leg of the promotion play-off. The clash at Geoffroy-Guichard ended without a single goal, resulting in a crucial Ligue 1 play-off draw.

Despite the fervent support from the Saint-Étienne faithful, who packed the stadium hoping to witness their team’s ascent back to the top tier, the action on the pitch proved to be rather muted. The match saw a total of just 11 shots, with neither side managing to register an attempt on target. While opportunities arose for players like Clauss (25th minute), Davitashvili (58th minute), and Boakye (60th minute), they ultimately failed to break the deadlock.

This outcome leaves both teams with work to do, though it’s particularly frustrating for Saint-Étienne, who couldn’t capitalize on their home advantage and the immense pressure from their supporters to gain a mental edge over a somewhat fragile Nice squad. Nice, still recovering from their French Cup final defeat just days prior, also faced an early blow when Bouaddi was forced off due to a head injury, limiting their attacking options.

The decisive second leg is now set to take place at the Allianz Riviera this Friday, May 29. The tension will undoubtedly build as fans await the final outcome, which will determine whether Saint-Étienne joins Troyes and Le Mans in securing direct promotion to Ligue 1, or if Nice successfully maintains its elite status.