Balotelli scores, Nice continues to dominate the top of Ligue I

The Italian striker scored in a 4-1 win over Nantes in round 11, helping Nice increase the gap to the group behind.

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 second in a 4-1 win over Nantes, when Balotelli met Jean Michael Seri's long pass and finished with a fine toe-kick into the far corner.

Before that, Wylan Cyprien opened the scoring for Nice in the ninth minute. Balotelli contributed to this goal when he won the ball and launched an attack in front of the 16m50 box.

Nantes fought back early in the second half with Emiliano Sala equalising and created a series of dangerous chances in front of the home goal. However, Alassane Plea restored Nice's two-goal lead before Cyprien completed his double to make it 4-1.

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

Nice are emerging as potential title contenders this season after PSG have 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