Nice Beat Ajaccio 2-1: Boudaoui and Ramsey Score to Move Away from Relegation Zone

# Nice Beat Ajaccio 2-1: Boudaoui and Ramsey Score to Move Away from Relegation Zone

## Introduction

In a thrilling encounter between Nice and Ajaccio on Sunday, the Ligue 1 side demonstrated their resilience and improved form with a convincing 2-1 victory over their struggling opponents. The match was marked by two crucial goals scored by Nicolas Boudaoui and Mohamed Salah's substitute, Riyad Mahrez. These goals not only secured a much-needed win but also lifted Nice out of the relegation zone, leaving them in a better position for the upcoming season.

## Match Overview

The game kicked off with both teams eager to make an impact. Nice, having lost their last three matches, were determined to avoid further drops in the table. Ajaccio, meanwhile, was looking to bounce back after their recent poor performances. The opening half saw both sides creating chances, but neither could find the back of the net.

## Key Moments

### First Half Goals

Nicolas Boudaoui, who had been making his mark in the league, struck first in the 25th minute. He cleverly played a through ball that found him unmarked in the box, and he calmly slotted it into the far corner to give Nice an early lead.

In the 47th minute, Mohamed Salah's substitute, Riyad Mahrez, made history. After coming on as a replacement for the injured N'Golo Kanté, Mahrez burst through the defense and delivered a perfect cross that found Boudaoui waiting at the near post. Boudaoui flicked the ball past the goalkeeper and into the empty net, widening the gap between Nice and Ajaccio.

### Second Half Goals

Despite being reduced to 10 men due to a red card for defender Romain Gagnon, Ajaccio continued to press high up the pitch. In the 69th minute, they drew level when Pierre-Antoine Coutinho managed to break free and score a goal from close range.

However, the second half belonged to Nice, who controlled the tempo and continued to apply pressure. In the 88th minute, substitute Benjamin Mendy converted a penalty kick for the final score, securing Nice's victory.

## Impact on League Position

With these two crucial goals, Nice moved up to 17th place in the Ligue 1 standings, putting them well within reach of the play-off spots. This result is particularly significant given that Nice has been in the relegation zone for several weeks now, facing the threat of dropping down to the second tier if they continue to struggle.

Ajaccio, on the other hand, suffered another setback, falling to 18th place. While they still have a chance to secure a promotion spot, this loss leaves them vulnerable and will likely require more consistent performance to avoid relegation.

## Conclusion

The victory against Ajaccio was a testament to Nice's improved form and tactical execution. Boudaoui's goal was a highlight of the match, showcasing his ability to create scoring opportunities and convert them effectively. Mahrez's substitute goal added another layer of excitement to the game, demonstrating the team's depth and versatility.

As Nice looks ahead to their remaining fixtures, they can take heart from this win. With the pressure removed from their shoulders, they have a chance to build momentum and potentially secure a better position in the league. On the other end of the table, Ajaccio must now focus on finding solutions to their defensive issues and improve their overall performance to avoid relegation.

This match serves as a reminder that even in challenging times, a strong team can rise above adversity and achieve success.