Veteran Dante’s performance is praised in Ligue 1

Dante, now in his eighth season with the Cote D'Azur club, continues to elevate his game to new heights

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2023-10-27 11:11:49

Image Credits: © (@ogcnice on Twitter)

At the age of 40, Dante, the talismanic captain of OGC Nice, defies time as he continues to be a vital force in the team’s success in Ligue 1 Uber Eats. His enduring excellence plays a significant role in keeping Francesco Farioli’s squad near the summit of the league.

In a recent match against their southern coastal rivals, Marseille, OGC Nice secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory, marking their sixth clean sheet of the season. Notably, they boast the most formidable defense among Europe’s top five leagues, having conceded a mere four goals in nine matches.

Dante’s performance in this victory against Marseille was a testament to his enduring prowess. Just three days after celebrating his 40th birthday, he joined a select group of players aged 40 or older to participate in Ligue 1 Uber Eats this century.

𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞̀𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐞 𝐟𝐞̂𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝟒𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐬, 𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐯𝐞𝐳 𝐩𝐚𝐬 ? 😎

Encore un joyeux anniversaire au Capi’ @dante_bonfim🎂 #OGCNice #OGCNOM pic.twitter.com/h7a0FzPvgl

— OGC Nice (@ogcnice) October 21, 2023

Dante is 40 and still getting it right

Dante, now in his eighth season with the Cote D’Azur club, continues to elevate his game to new heights. He has been an ever-present figure on the field this season, forming a rock-solid partnership with Jean-Clair Todibo. While Todibo has received acclaim, it is Dante whose statistics shine. He leads in blocked shots, dominates aerial duels, and ranks second in the league for ball recoveries.

Francesco Farioli, Nice’s head coach, heaps praise on Dante for his football intelligence and versatility. He excels in both tight defensive situations and wide areas, demonstrating the ability to contribute offensively as well as defensively.

Dante’s experience, six years senior to Farioli, is an invaluable asset to the team and its patient passing style. Notably, Dante has completed the third-most passes in all of Ligue 1 Uber Eats this season, averaging 14 more passes per match compared to the previous season. As the only unbeaten team in Ligue 1 Uber Eats this season, OGC Nice is emerging as a contender in the title race, challenging traditional powerhouses like Monaco and PSG.

Dante, a seasoned champion with three Bundesliga titles and a Champions League triumph to his name, emphasizes the need for continuous hard work to maintain success. Despite their strong start, he remains focused on the journey ahead. With their sights set on an upcoming match against Clermont, OGC Nice, led by Dante, aims to return to the top of the league standings.