The first multiplex of the Ligue 1 season took a long time to settle. But already delivers first lessons.
Clermont already amazes
In full internal upheaval and on his sidelines, Bordeaux fell from the outset against a promoted Clermont already very established (0-2). On their lawn, the Girondins suffered against more ambitious and sharper Auvergnats. Twice, Bayo and Allevinah deceived Costil in the first period (19th and 23rd). Before seeing their goal canceled for offside positions. The Bordeaux goalkeeper did everything to save the furniture with several decisive stops (34th, 42nd, 55th and 60th). But he gave in at the end of the match. In front of Bayo first (82nd) then on a face-to-face with Dossou, an impressive lucidity to seal the game (90th + 3). In Ligue 1 for the first time in its history, the promoted Clermont will not deny himself.
Long awaited, the first of Christophe Galtier on the bench of OGC Nice ended in a goalless game in goals against Reims (0-0). Faced with the defense of five of the Rémois, the Aiglons had a hard time finding solutions. Only a header from Todibo after a free kick from Gouiri put Rajkovic to work in a closed meeting (32nd). Just arrived in Nice, Kluivert showed some interesting flashes thanks to his acceleration but narrowly missed to break through the Champagne wall. On the other hand, Oscar Garcia’s players have never given the feeling of being able to hurt the opposing defense (no shot on target) but can be satisfied with a point acquired thanks to an already impressive solidity.
Saint-Étienne and Lorient back to back
In Geoffroy-Guichard, ASSE had a frustrating first meeting against Lorient (1-1). More dangerous than the Bretons (20 shots), Claude Puel’s players almost paid dearly for their clumsiness. Like this completely failed revival which resulted in a post from Abergel (6th). The Merlus could also have taken the lead thanks to Mendes on a corner (43rd). But it was finally Le Goff who took advantage of Stéphane’s largesse to unlock the match (52nd). In difficulty, Saint-Etienne came back thanks to a penalty obtained and transformed by Khazri (70th). In the process, Nade thought to put the Greens in front but his head found the bar of Nardi (74th). Too much was missing to do better.
Strasbourg disappoints
Another duel of new coaches, this Strasbourg-Angers turned to the advantage of Gerald Baticle at the expense of Julien Stéphan (2-0). At La Meinau, the SCO suffered little and were cold realistically to make the difference on their rare opportunities. After an anecdotal first half, Traoré cheated Sels with a header in the continuity of a corner (57th). And while the entry of Gameiro was to remobilize them, the Alsatians definitely sank on a goal from Bahoken, former of the house (81st). Racing has shown too little.