Nice - Lorient

Nice and Lorient begin their Ligue 1 journey on 22 August 2026 at Allianz Riviera, looking to establish early momentum in this matchday 1 encounter. The hosts are expected to rely on a defensive unit featuring Jonathan Clauss and Moise Bombito, while Victor Orakpo leads the line in search of an opening goal. Nice must navigate this test without the suspended Kojo Peprah Oppong and the injured Morgan Sanson, forcing adjustments in their midfield structure.

Lorient arrives with a settled defensive core led by Montassar Talbi and Nathaniel Adjei, aiming to frustrate the home side. Their recent meetings have been high-scoring affairs, including a 3-3 draw in February 2026 and a 3-1 victory for Lorient in November 2025. With both sides eager to set a positive tone for the season, the tactical battle in central areas will likely dictate the flow of this opening contest.