Nice host Bordeaux behind closed doors | OneFootball

OGC Nice will host Girondins de Bordeaux behind closed doors at the Allianz Riviera on Saturday as a punishment following the incidents which led to the abandonment of last weekend’s game against Olympique de Marseille.

The LFP banned fans from entering the ground for Saturday’s game, which kicks off at 1700 CET (1500 GMT) following a midweek hearing into the “serious incidents” which marred the Mediterranean derby.

However, a definitive verdict will have to wait until next month, both in terms of further punishments and also the outcome of the match itself, which was stopped in the 75th minute. The end of the ground where the incidents began had already been closed for four matches on the order of the prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes department.

“What happened has left its mark on us, but we need to look forward now,” said Nice coach Christophe Galtier ahead of the visit of Bordeaux. “We need to be competitors, maintain our good dynamic and make sure we sign off before the international break on a positive note.”

Dutch international winger Calvin Stengs is in line to feature for the first time following his €10 million summer move from AZ Alkmaar. He has yet to play for his new club because of a thigh injury but is in the squad.

“He is not yet in optimal condition physically but he is available,” said Galtier this week.

>> Back from the brink: Bordeaux hope for brighter future