Nice vs Monaco - Nice midfielder Wylan Cyprien sets his sights on top spot in Ligue 1

Posted Tuesday, September 20, 2016 by PA

Nice will be gunning for top spot in Ligue 1 when they host Monaco on Wednesday, and midfielder Wylan Cyprien is confident they have what it takes.

The table-topping principality club make the short trip to their nearest mainland rivals, who are just two points behind them in the standings with both teams unbeaten through their first five games.

And despite having been held by Montpellier last time out and lost their Europa League clash with Schalke, Nice go into the match full of belief.

"It will be a very lively match with a high level, intensity and the flavour of a derby," Cyprien told the club's official website.

"If we win, we will go in front. That will be an extra bit of motivation.

"Monaco are always very strong. They are at the top of the table and have had a very good start, like us.

"In terms of budget, it is a different world. But on the pitch, we will give our all to win this match. We have the weapons to compete with them."

Prominent among those weapons is Mario Balotelli and the former Manchester City, Inter and AC Milan player's striking duel with Radamel Falcao is an obvious focal point.

Asked if it would come down to the two number nines, though, Cyprien said: "I don't think so.

"They are not in the same area but they have the same job: scoring goals.

"It will be AS Monaco against OGC Nice, not Balotelli against Falcao. One team against another in a good football match."

Monaco defender Kamil Glik is ready for the test provided by Balotelli.

"Balotelli hasn't played much in recent months. He will be out to prove a point," the Poland international told asmonaco.com.

"I played against him several times when he was at AC Milan. He's got a great shot on him. Our aim will be to stop him from getting into scoring positions."

Monaco have followed up a disappointing opening draw at home to Guingamp with four straight wins, including against four-time reigning champions Paris St Germain, and also beat Tottenham at Wembley in the Champions League last week.

Glik said: "We've made a great start in the league. We've sent out a strong message by beating some big sides, in the Champions League and in Ligue 1 against PSG.

"Aside from the fact that it's a derby, this will be a special match as it's first against second place. The three points will be very important on Wednesday night."