Nice dropped valuable points in the French title race after drawing 0-0 at home to struggling Metz on Sunday, a result that plays into the hands of title rival Paris Saint-Germain. With star striker Mario Balotelli and creative midfielder Younes Belhanda both unavailable through suspension, Nice lacked its usual invention against a resilient Metz side playing far better than a team placed 19th in the league and going close early in the second half through midfielder Renaud Cohade. Having completed his suspension, Balotelli will be back to lead the line against Bastia on Friday, Favre said. More...