Balotelli scores, Nice continues to dominate the top of Ligue 1.

The Italian striker scored in Nice's 4-1 victory over Nantes in round 11, helping them increase their lead over the chasing pack.

Balotelli's goal against Nantes. Photo: Reuters.

Mario Balotelli has scored seven goals in seven appearances for Nice this season, including six in Ligue 1. His most recent goal was the one that made it 2-0 in the 4-1 victory against Nantes. Balotelli received a long pass from Jean Michael Seri and finished skillfully with the tip of his boot into the far corner.

Earlier, Wylan Cyprien opened the scoring for Nice in the ninth minute. Balotelli contributed to this goal by winning the ball and initiating the attack just outside the penalty area.

Nantes rallied early in the second half with Emiliano Sala's equalizer and created a series of dangerous opportunities in front of the home team's goal. However, Alassane Plea restored Nice's two-goal lead before Cyprien completed his brace to seal the 4-1 victory.

Nice's victory over Nantes, coupled with Monaco's 1-1 draw at Saint Etienne, helped them consolidate their top position in Ligue 1. Coach Lucien Favre's team now has 29 points, while the two giants behind them, Monaco and PSG, only have 23 points.

Nice are becoming potential title contenders this season after PSG dominated Ligue 1 for the past four years. Nice are the only unbeaten team in Ligue 1 after 11 rounds, with nine wins and two draws.

According to VNE