OGC Nice vs AS Monaco Prediction 08.02.2026 | Ligue 1

OGC Nice approach this high-octane weekend clash at a crossroads, still searching for a formula to arrest a concerning slide that has left them languishing in 13th place in the Ligue 1 standings with a modest 22 points.

The Riviera outfit have become something of a puzzle this season. Their dramatic 2-2 draw with Brest highlighted their resilience, yet it also exposed a porous defense that has now failed to keep a clean sheet in 18 consecutive games across all competitions.

Meanwhile, Allianz Riviera supporters are growing increasingly restless as their side remains without a win in four successive league matches at home (D2 L2), placing manager Claude Puel under significant pressure to restore faith and momentum in front of the home crowd.

Compounding their challenges, Les Aiglons will be weakened defensively for Sunday’s derby. Youssouf Ndayishimiye, Moise Bombito, Mohamed Abdelmonem, and full-back Melvin Bard are all sidelined through injury, leaving Nice to cope without key elements of their backline.

On the other side, Monaco enter the “Derby de la Cote d’Azur” eager to reignite their continental ambitions after a period of frustrating turbulence under Sebastien Pocognoli, whose tenure saw the team perform below expectations and left doubts over the squad’s future direction.

Currently occupying 10th spot with a modest 27 points, Les Monegasques have shown this season that they are an inconsistent force. Their dominant 4-0 demolition of Rennes showcased a devastating attacking arsenal, yet a 3-1 Coupe de France defeat to Strasbourg highlighted lingering tactical fragility and inconsistency.

Desperate to avenge a 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture, Monaco will approach this derby not only as a battle for local bragging rights but also as a crucial springboard to climb back into the top six. However, a recent four-game winless streak on the road has raised questions about the team’s mental resilience away from home.

Further complicating matters, Monaco face a severe personnel shortage, with ten players sidelined. While some are edging toward a return, it is unlikely they will be risked, leaving the squad with a challenging task if they are to secure a positive result in this high-stakes clash.