OGC Nice have the best defence in Europe’s top five leagues after keeping yet another clean sheet during Sunday night’s victory over Stade Rennais.
Francesco Farioli’s side have conceded just four goals in 11 Ligue 1 games this season, conceding in just three games and keeping eight clean sheets. Individuals have shone during this run. Dante, despite celebrating his 40th birthday in October, has been imperious, as has Jean-Clair Todibo, whilst Marcin Bulka has certainly repaid the faith that Farioli placed in him. The Polish goalkeeper unseated Kasper Schmeichel as the club’s No. 1 at the start of the season.
Nice have been defensively solid for some time. Despite only finishing ninth last season, Les Aiglons’ defensive record (37 goals conceded) was only bettered by second-placed RC Lens. That solidity has been carried over into the current campaign.
Thanks to Sunday’s win against Rennes, Nice not only retake top spot in Ligue 1, but also extend their unbeaten run to 14 matches (nine wins, five draws), which is not only the longest ongoing run in Europe’s top five divisions, but also the club’s longest run since 1967.
