Nice's 2-1 victory over Brest in Ligue 1 Round 36 lifts them back into the European qualification zone

# Nice's 2-1 Victory Over Brest Lifts Them Back Into European Qualification Zone

Nice's 2-1 triumph over Brest in Ligue 1 Round 36 has sent shockwaves through the French football scene, as they regain a foothold in the race for European qualification. The match, played at Stade Gaston Colomb-Koubilà, was a thrilling encounter that saw Nice dominate possession and ultimately secure a hard-fought victory.

The first half was a tale of two halves, with Nice dictating play but struggling to break down a resilient Brest defense. Despite their dominance, the visitors took the lead in the 35th minute when Gaëtan Laborde converted a penalty, following a handball decision against Brest defender Gaëtan Palessini. However, Brest responded just before halftime as Enzo Zidane, son of manager Mauricio Pellegrini, capitalized on a defensive error to level the score.

The second half was a different story. Nice came out stronger and took control of the game. In the 58th minute, Laborde scored again with a clinical finish, this time from inside the box after a well-executed through ball from Khéphren Thuram. Brest, despite their best efforts, couldn't find an equalizer, and it was Moffi who sealed the deal in stoppage time with a well-timed finish.

This victory moves Nice to 14th place in Ligue 1, with just five points separating them from the top half of the table. With European qualification still within their grasp, Nice will look to build on this performance as they aim to secure a spot in either the Champions League or the Europa League next season.

Manager Pellegrini praised the team's resilience after the match, saying, "We fought hard for this win. It was a tough game, especially in the first half, but we showed great character to come back in the second half."

For Brest, this defeat extends their winless streak in Ligue 1, and they will need to regroup ahead of their next match against Reims. Meanwhile, Nice's fans have every reason to believe that their team can continue this momentum and achieve their goal of qualifying for Europe.

In a match that was as much about determination as it was skill, Nice's 2-1 victory over Brest will be remembered as a pivotal moment in their season. With the European qualification zone now firmly in their sights, the stage is set for Nice to make history.