Nice Players Assaulted by Fans After Defeat, Team Issues Statement

Two players from OGC Nice, **Terem Moffi** and **Jeremie Boga**, have been placed on leave following an alleged assault by fans after a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Lorient on March 15, 2024. The incident occurred at the club’s training ground, where approximately 400 Ultras awaited the team upon their return. Tensions escalated when two supporters boarded the team bus to confront the players, leading to violence as Moffi and Boga exited the vehicle.

Witnesses reported that both players were subjected to physical attacks, including being punched, kicked, and insulted by the Ultras in a chaotic scene on the **Boulevard Jean-Luciano**. Moffi was particularly targeted, enduring aggressive actions that included having his hair pulled. He required assistance from goalkeeper **Yéhvann Diouf** to escape the hostile crowd and reach safety inside the club’s facility.

The club’s sporting director, **Florian Maurice**, also faced threats and had to be escorted to his car by security personnel. Despite the unrest, manager **Franck Haise** received support from the crowd, with fans expressing their continued backing for him. Notably, current captain **Melvin Bard** and midfielder **Sofiane Diop** appeared to evade any mistreatment during the incident.

In response to the violence, Moffi has been placed on sick leave for one week, while Boga will be absent for five days. Both players reported the incident to local police on March 16, seeking to file charges against their assailants. Police have yet to comment on the situation.

The club issued an official statement on the matter, acknowledging the frustration stemming from a series of poor performances. “The excesses we saw during this gathering are unacceptable. A few members of the club have been attacked,” the statement read. OGC Nice extended its full support to the victims and condemned the violence, emphasizing that such behavior does not align with the club’s values.

This incident follows Nice’s sixth consecutive loss in all competitions, a trend that has left fans disheartened. The Ultras have expressed their dissatisfaction, particularly targeting Moffi and Boga for perceived poor attitudes in recent weeks. The club currently sits in 10th place in **Ligue 1** and is set to host **Angers** in their next match.

Players within the squad have voiced their concerns regarding the lack of security during the incident. One player expressed disbelief at the club’s failure to provide adequate protection, describing the experience as “unbelievable and scary.” As the team prepares for their upcoming fixture, the atmosphere remains tense, with the players still grappling with the emotional aftermath of the assault.