Wahi and Boudache’s dramatic farewell: Nice secures ligue 1 status
Elye Wahi, at the end of his loan spell, and Kaïl Boudache, set for Lyon, proved pivotal in Nice’s triumphant 4-1 victory over Saint-Étienne (following a 0-0 first leg) on Friday evening, ensuring the club’s continued presence in Ligue 1.
The moment called for a heartfelt embrace with Claude Puel, as Elye Wahi was lifted jubilantly into the air. With a grin as wide as his coach’s, Wahi erupted in celebration after netting Nice’s third goal in the 87th minute, just before added time. He then sealed the club’s Ligue 1 survival with another brilliant strike in the 90+2 minute, securing a decisive 4-1 victory over Saint-Étienne. Overwhelmed with emotion, tears welled in his eyes as he spoke to the broadcaster. “To achieve a result like this at home, even without supporters, is extraordinary,” he shared. “I am incredibly proud of myself, and immensely proud of the entire team.”
Even without a crowd, this intense Nice evening will undoubtedly be etched into the Gym’s history. Wahi leaves behind an indelible legacy of a highly successful loan, having been the cornerstone of this challenging Ligue 1 survival. He contributed 9 goals across all competitions, revitalizing the Azuréenne attack. Personally, this six-month stint offered him a significant opportunity to regain his form, shining as brightly as his red-tinted braids for this final encounter.
During his time in Nice, Wahi earned his call-up as an Ivorian international and is now preparing to join his national squad for the upcoming World Cup. He will then return to Frankfurt with a transformed image, having shed his reputation for nonchalance and instead showcasing unwavering commitment and vitality to the entire locker room.
Boudache, the determined talent
On Friday night, the Allianz Riviera spotlight was shared with another striker in a unique situation: the young Kaïl Boudache, aged 19. Not initially part of Nice’s plans last summer, when he underwent a trial at Braga, nor in December, when he turned down offers from Dunkerque (L2), Boudache remained steadfast in his ambition to play for his formative club. This spirited Aiglon has certainly experienced a memorable start to 2026.
He seized the opportunity presented by the duo of Claude Puel and Julien Sablé to showcase his talents in January. Boudache displayed his explosive pace and speed, qualities he used to pounce on a loose ball and convert it into the crucial 2-1 goal in the 81st minute. This moment will perhaps be remembered as a final gift to Nice. After a period of careful consideration and uncertainty surrounding Nice’s future plans, he ultimately chose to accept an offer from Lyon: he is set to sign his first professional contract, a three-year deal, in the Rhône region on Monday.