Le Mans FC secured a 1-1 draw away at OGC Nice on Saturday, a result that leaves both teams still searching for their first win of the season. The point earned at the Allianz Riviera comes as the club confirmed the departure of midfielder Milan Robin to the Portuguese top flight.
How did the match against Nice unfold?
According to the match report from Sports - Orange, the third-round fixture took place this Saturday, September 5th. The visitors took an early lead through Adil Bourabaa, who opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Le Mans held the advantage until just before half-time, when Elye Wahi equalized for Nice following an assist from Sofiane Diop.
The second half saw clear chances for both sides. Louis Mafouta missed a golden opportunity to put Le Mans back in front when he hit the post in the 86th minute, as reported by the outlet. Goalkeeper Hatfout was also called upon several times to preserve the draw. This result places Le Mans FC 13th in the Ligue 1 standings, with 2 points from their first three games.
Why is Milan Robin leaving Le Mans FC?
The club announced on its official website the departure of Milan Robin, who is joining Estoril in Portugal's Primeira Liga. The midfielder, who arrived in the summer of 2025, leaves after just one season. He made 28 Ligue 2 appearances for Le Mans, providing four assists and scoring one goal.
That goal, scored in added time on May 9th in Furiani, is described by the club as "liberating." It sealed Le Mans FC's return to Ligue 1, sixteen years after their last stint in the top flight. The club's statement describes him as a "discreet and composed" player who quickly found his place in the squad and the hearts of the supporters. Le Mans FC wishes him "the best for the rest" of his career.
What is the current state of the squad?
The team must cope with several absences for the coming matches. Verified information indicates that Erwan Colas and Nicolas Kocik are currently sidelined. These absences impact the tactical choices of manager Patrick Videira as the schedule intensifies.
The team's attacking record shows five goals scored and six conceded, for a goal difference of -1. They trail league leaders AS Monaco by seven points after just three matchdays. Supporters can check the full list of available players on the site's squad page.
What is the next challenge for Le Mans FC?
The team will host RC Lens at home on September 13th. It will be an opportunity to secure a first win in front of their own fans at the MMArena. Lens, currently tenth in the table, represents a significant challenge for Videira's side.
This match is the first in a crucial run of games to try and climb the standings. The full upcoming schedule is available in our fixtures section. The match against Lens is scheduled for Sunday, September 13, 2026.
