Elye Wahi delivered his most decisive performance of the season as OGC Nice defeated Stade Rennais 5-2 on Friday, 30 October, in the ninth round of Ligue 1.
The Ivorian striker scored a hat-trick and supplied an assist, directly contributing to four of Nice’s five goals in a result that strengthens the club’s hopes of competing for European places.
At 23, Wahi is beginning to rediscover the form that once marked him out as one of the most promising forwards of his generation. Following more difficult periods in his career, the former Montpellier player is showing renewed confidence on the Cote d’Azur.
His display against Rennes underlined both his finishing ability and his contribution to the wider attacking game. Wahi was a constant threat inside the penalty area, while also proving capable of creating opportunities for his team-mates.
Wahi takes centre stage against Rennes
The forward opened his account by converting a penalty with composure before repeating the feat from the spot. He completed his hat-trick with a composed finish after meeting a cut-back from Gauthier Hein.
Wahi’s influence extended beyond his three goals. He also registered an assist, ensuring he played a direct role in four of Nice’s five strikes during an important home victory.
The performance represents a significant step in his return to form. After eight league appearances this season, Wahi now has six goals and two assists. Those figures reflect his growing importance to the OGC Nice attack and offer evidence that his confidence is continuing to build.
Nice can now look to Wahi as an increasingly influential figure in their pursuit of European ambitions. His ability to change matches through his finishing, movement and link-up play gives the side an additional attacking outlet as the campaign develops.
The striker is valued at 18 million euros by Transfermarkt and will now be expected to maintain this level over a sustained period. His career has included challenging spells, but he appears to have found favourable conditions in which to express his qualities again.
The next test will be consistency. A single outstanding performance cannot define a season, but Wahi’s display against Rennes provided a strong indication that he may be entering an important new phase of his career.