Previews: Modest Bordeaux eye Ligue 1 title
PARIS - Girondins Bordeaux have long played down their Ligue 1 title hopes but seven consecutive wins mean modesty is no longer an option for Laurent Blanc's side. Second-placed Bordeaux, who visit Valenciennes on Wednesday, are level on 68 points with Olympique Marseille, who top the standings on goal difference having scored one more goal than their rivals.
The Ligue 1 crown appears to be destined for Bordeaux or Marseille with third-placed Olympique Lyon seven points behind the leaders.
"If we win at Valenciennes, we can aim for the title," Bordeaux and France midfielder Alou Diarra told reporters after a 3-0 home victory against Sochaux on May 3.
Bordeaux, who were last crowned champions 10 years ago, have won their last seven league games and also clinched the French League Cup last month.
"Our winning streak is quite interesting and hopefully we will extend it but we don't have any psychological advantage over anybody," Blanc warned his players.
Marseille were on the same winning run as Bordeaux before being held to a 2-2 draw at home by Toulouse on May 2.
The Provence side visit Nice on Wednesday before entertaining Lyon four days later.
"We simply must win at Nice," coach Eric Gerets told reporters on Monday.
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"If we lose and Bordeaux win (at Valenciennes), our game against Lyon will be far less important for the end of our season. But I think the title race won't be settled this week," he added.
Lyon welcome struggling Nantes on Tuesday with their hopes of winning an eighth consecutive title now all but vanished after a 2-0 defeat at Valenciennes on May 2.
"It had to happen. We have lived seven incredible seasons," Lyon captain Juninho told RMC radio.