# Nice Defeats Ajaccio 2-1, Boudaoui and Ramsey Steer Clear of Relegation Zone

In a thrilling encounter at Allianz Riviera, Nice emerged victorious over Ajaccio with a scoreline of 2-1, securing a crucial victory that keeps them firmly in contention for a top-half finish in Ligue 1. The match was a rollercoaster affair, with both teams displaying attacking intent, but it was Nice who ultimately emerged victorious thanks to two well-timed strikes.

The game started at a brisk pace, with both sides looking to impose their style. Ajaccio came out of the blocks strongly, testing Nice's defense early on. However, it was Nice who broke the deadlock in the 15th minute when Gaëtan Laborde fired a powerful shot past Ajaccio goalkeeper Heyet Sambou. The goal was a testament to Laborde's composure and clinical finishing, giving Nice the lead they needed to build upon.

Ajaccio responded quickly, with French striker Ludovic Blas leveling the score just five minutes later. Blas, who had been a thorn in Nice's side all season, capitalized on a defensive error to slot home from inside the box. The goal showcased Blas's predatory instincts and kept the visitors in the game.

Despite the early setback, Nice refused to yield and pressed for a winner. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when midfielder Khéphren Thuram, who had been introduced as a substitute, delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the box. The unmarked Terem Moffi rose highest to head the ball into the net, securing a 2-1 lead for Nice.

Terem Moffi’s goal was a moment of brilliance, but it was the combination play and unselfishness of his teammates that truly highlighted Nice’s attacking threat. The victory not only extended Nice’s recent good form but also moved them further away from the relegation zone, with the club now 10th in Ligue 1 after this win.

Speaking afterward, Nice boss Alexandre Boudaoui praised his players’ resilience and ability to adapt during the game. “We showed great character tonight,” said Boudaoui. “Ajaccio are a tough opponent, and we had to dig deep to get this result. I’m proud of the players for their effort and determination.”

Boudaoui’s comments were echoed by his counterpart at Ajaccio, who acknowledged the difficulty of conceding early goals. “Nice are a strong team, and we need to learn from this match,” said Ajaccio manager Olivier Dall’Olio. “We’ll regroup and work on our defense to avoid conceding such soft goals moving forward.”

For Nice, the win was particularly significant as it came against a fellow battle-hardened side like Ajaccio. The result underscores the progress Nice has made under Boudaoui’s leadership, with key players like Moffi and Thuram stepping up when it mattered most. Meanwhile, Ajaccio’s inability to capitalize on their chances will be a point of focus as they aim to climb the table in the coming weeks.

This victory for Nice is a welcome boost as they look to solidify their position in Ligue 1 and avoid the relegation trap. With a mix of experienced campaigners and rising talents, Nice are building a team capable of competing at the highest level, and this win is a step in the right direction.