AJ Auxerre secured their first Ligue 1 victory of the season with a 1-0 win over Nice on Saturday. The decisive goal was scored by Cameron Archer in the second half, a success that prompted players to exclaim "Mais qu’est-ce qu’il s’est passé… On les a chicoté" in the dressing room, where former club legend Djibril Cissé joined the celebrations.
This win was vital for the morale of a team sitting 15th in the league with just three points prior to the match. It lifts AJA out of the relegation zone and closer to mid-table. The success hinges largely on Cameron Archer, who netted his second goal of the season in just two appearances. The upcoming fixtures show the team must confirm this form in the next match against Brest.
The result leaves Nice rooted to the bottom of Ligue 1. For Auxerre, this defensive solidity, after conceding eleven goals in the first three matchdays, is a relief. The squad will still have to manage several absences, with Assane Dioussé, Marvin Senaya, Sekou Fofana and Telli Siwe all still sidelined. The next home game against Stade Brestois 29, scheduled for September 19, presents another opportunity to gather points.
Background and full detail: Foot Mercato
The team confirmed that Cameron Archer scored in the 74th minute from a Christ Makosso assist in the 1-0 win over Nice on September 12. The club highlighted that the main striker now has two goals in two appearances this season. Auxerre, 15th with 3 points, has conceded 11 goals in four games.
Will Still praised his team's defensive progress after the 1-0 win over Nice. The Belgian manager said: "It may be romantic to say, but the fact you keep a clean sheet after conceding eleven goals in three matches." Still also lauded the contribution of Axel Tuanzebe, who made his debut. "He did us a lot of good. I think we see the calm and serenity he will bring us," he said. Auxerre, 15th with 3 points, have scored 5 and conceded 11 goals this season.
