Tactical Analysis: Metz 2 - 4 OGC Nice

Throughout the 2016/17 footballing season, there were many interesting matches. Many of these go relatively unnoticed in the chaos of the schedule and are neglected in terms of the depth they deserve. In a BTL exclusive feature, writer Ross Eaton (@boxtoboxcb) will be analysing a series of these intriguing football matches...

On gameweek 10 of Ligue 1, Lucien Favre's Nice side topped the French league table by a gap of four points. Title rivals PSG had slipped up and the Eaglets pounced. Favre had shown tactical versatility in his opening months as Nice boss, implementing and adapting similar systems and styles to different situations and shapes. Metz, though not spectacular, were intriguing to watch following their promotion from Ligue 1, occupied a mid-table spot.

Metz utilised a 4-4-2 formation, which in possession often transitioned into a 4-2-3-1. The chosen line-up was as follows: Didillon; Rivierez, Milan, Falette, Signorino; Sarr, Cohade, Mandjeck, Nguette; Jouffre; Erdinc.

Nice played with a fluid and pragmatic 4-3-3 shape. Cardinale was the GK, ahead of him Souquet, Dante, Malang Sarr and Ricardo Pereira. The midfield three had interchangeable positions. This was made up from Cyprien, Seri and Remi Walter. Eyserric was chosen as the right-winger, with Allasane Plea and Belhanda playing from the CF and LW positions.