The years have passed, and even if it retains this unique aspect, the derby between OL and ASSE has apparently lost its popular jubilation of yesteryear. What our consultants Nicolas Puydebois and Enzo Reale regret.
Many checked this date first in the calendar revealed at the start of the season. Almost three years after the last derby, one evening in January 2022, OL and ASSE will face each other again. The meeting is scheduled for Sunday at 8:45 p.m., a poster that no one in the region will want to miss. But if this duel remains unique in the French football landscape, it does not raise the crowds.
The build-up of pressure is timid before the match, and it is difficult to feel the special atmosphere weeks before this type of game. “It's a shame, we didn't maintain this rivalry, this flame. While remaining respectful, without violence, but restraint, regional supremacy, it has to be earned, it has to be won. There is no one left to light this derby flame, regretted Nicolas Puydeboisthree times French champions (2003-2005), in As long as there are Gone. However, it is this electric atmosphere that you want to experience when you are a high-level athlete.”
On the national level, less interest
Several explanations for this, with first of all the gradual downgrading of the Greens, going down to Ligue 2 before going back up for this season. “The best confrontations were when Saint-Etienne was at the top of the ranking, Enzo remembered Realtrained at Olympique Lyonnais. Currently, they don't necessarily have a team to compete with, which takes away the flavor of the clash.“
At the national level, the match is also less sold than an OL – PSG or a PSG – OM, the sounding board is therefore for the moment mainly due to the local media. There is also the evolution of society, habits and customs. “I no longer find what I knew before. It may sound “old soldier”, but it was better before, said the former Rhone goalkeeper. Today, everything must be sanitized, whether it is politically correct. We can no longer accommodate, go beyond the limits just a little and the public authorities are incapable of regulating the movements of fans. I hear the increase in violence, that society is becoming more and more extreme, but this match must be played in front of Lyonnais and Stéphanois.”
A party without its neighbor
The bans on opposing spectators coming to cheer on their team also play a role in this slightly behind-the-scenes derby impression. “The recent excesses between supporters, knowing that they no longer have the right to travel, it's really regrettable because it must be a celebration, added the Goal FC footballer. It’s important for both clubs. I find it a shame that we don't talk about it more, that there aren't a few barbs thrown, that's also what football is all about.“There is no doubt that the atmosphere will increase as we get closer to November 10. In the meantime, Pierre's men Sage have the European Cup to play on Thursday in Hoffenheim, enough to whet the appetite for the most impatient, before finally returning to ASSE.
