The clash between AJ Auxerre and OGC Nice promises to be one of the most decisive fixtures of the 33rd round in Ligue 1. Scheduled for Sunday evening, this encounter at the Abbé-Deschamps Stadium could play a crucial role in determining which side secures top-flight survival. With only three points separating the two teams, the stakes could not be higher. Auxerre, currently sitting 16th, have shown signs of resilience in recent weeks, while Nice, one place above them, are struggling to find consistency in the league despite their progress in the domestic cup.

Auxerre’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Auxerre approach this match with renewed confidence after a vital 3-1 victory over Angers SCO on May 3, 2026. That result extended their positive run to just one defeat in their last six Ligue 1 outings, a sequence that has kept their survival hopes alive. The team’s recent performances have been marked by determination and improved attacking efficiency, averaging 1.6 goals scored and 1.4 conceded across their last five matches.

Throughout the season, Auxerre’s campaign has been a battle against the drop, with an overall record of 6 wins, 10 draws, and 16 defeats. Their average of 0.9 goals scored per game highlights the offensive struggles that have often limited their progress, while conceding 1.3 goals per match has kept them under pressure. However, their recent home form has shown improvement, and the support of their fans could prove decisive in this crucial fixture.

Interestingly, Under 0.5 goals have been recorded in 4 of their last 10 home matches, suggesting that Auxerre’s games at the Abbé-Deschamps often start cautiously. Yet, with the attacking duo of Sékou Mara and Lassine Sinayoko in good form, the hosts will look to break that trend and take the initiative early on. Mara, in particular, has been instrumental in recent weeks, contributing both goals and assists, while Sinayoko’s nine league goals underline his importance in the final third.

• Ranking: 16th in Ligue 1


• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 3 draws, 1 defeat


• Average goals scored: 1.6 | Average conceded: 1.4


• Season record: W6 · D10 · L16


• Last head-to-head vs Nice: 3-1 win (August 23, 2025)

Nice’s Recent Form and Key Stats

OGC Nice enter this decisive encounter in a delicate position. Despite sitting 15th, just above the relegation zone, their recent form has been far from reassuring. The Aiglons have failed to win any of their last six Ligue 1 matches, a run that includes four consecutive draws. Their most recent result, a 1-1 draw against Lens on May 2, 2026, once again highlighted their inability to convert solid performances into victories.

Over the course of the season, Nice have recorded 7 wins, 10 draws, and 15 defeats, scoring an average of 1.1 goals per game while conceding 1.8. Their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in the first half, have been costly — they have lost at half time in 13 of their last 20 Ligue 1 matches. Away from home, that trend continues, with six first-half losses in their last ten trips.

Despite these struggles, Nice remain a competitive side capable of frustrating opponents. Their recent sequence of draws against strong teams such as Marseille, Lille, and Lens demonstrates resilience, even if victories have been elusive. The absence of key players like Moïse Bombito and Everton complicates matters, but the visitors will rely on their experienced midfielders and the creativity of their attacking unit to find a breakthrough.

• Ranking: 15th in Ligue 1


• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 4 draws, 0 defeats


• Average goals scored: 1.0 | Average conceded: 0.6


• Season record: W7 · D10 · L15


• Under 0.5 goals in 3 of their last 14 matches

Auxerre vs Nice Tactical Overview and Prediction

This match between Auxerre and Nice is shaping up to be a tense and strategic battle. Both teams are fighting for survival, and neither can afford a defeat. Auxerre’s recent improvement in attack, combined with home advantage, could give them a slight edge. Their ability to press high and exploit spaces behind Nice’s defense may prove decisive, especially given the visitors’ tendency to concede early goals.

On the other hand, Nice’s compact defensive structure and disciplined midfield could make them difficult to break down. Their recent run of draws suggests a cautious approach, prioritizing stability over risk-taking. However, with both teams aware of the stakes, moments of individual brilliance could decide the outcome. The head-to-head record between the sides is balanced, with Auxerre winning once, drawing three times, and losing once in their last five meetings, averaging 1.0 goals scored and 1.2 conceded.

Given the context, a low-scoring affair seems plausible, but Auxerre’s momentum and home support might tilt the balance slightly in their favor. The hosts will aim to capitalize on their recent form to climb out of the relegation zone, while Nice will fight to maintain their narrow advantage in the standings.

Auxerre vs Nice prediction from BetMines: Home Win (1) with 43% probability.