Mohamed Amoura quickly makes impression at OGC Nice

Mohamed Amoura has quickly made an impression at OGC Nice after scoring his first goal for the club just three appearances into his spell on the French Riviera.

The Algeria international joined Nice in the final hours of the summer transfer window and has already featured three times, including two starts.

His latest appearance against Lille on Sunday produced his most impressive display since arriving, with the 26 year old striker involved in the opening goal before scoring himself in the second half.

Amoura showed his attacking instinct when he was played through on goal. He controlled the ball, used a feint to get around the opposing goalkeeper and calmly finished into an empty net.

It was his first goal for Les Aiglons and another sign that he is settling quickly into his new surroundings.

His performance also caught the attention of Nice manager Olivier Pantaloni, who praised more than just the forward’s contribution in front of goal.

The coach pointed to Amoura’s willingness to work for the team and believes his qualities can give Nice another way of challenging opponents alongside Elye Wahi.

“ Amoura is an extremely generous player. Against Lille, he was also effective in what he offered. With these two player profiles (with Wahi), we can pose problems against teams that have a slightly higher defensive line ,” explained the coach.

Pantaloni’s assessment has been echoed inside the Nice dressing room, with captain Axel Witsel also impressed by what Amoura has brought to the team.

The Belgian midfielder focused particularly on the Algerian’s pace when Nice move from defence into attack.

“ When we go back into transition, we know that Mohamed (Amoura) is someone who goes at 2000 km/h. He is quite lucid and calm in front of goal. I am super happy for him, and especially for us, for the fans,” the Belgian confided.

Amoura’s ability to combine speed with composure in front of goal was evident in his finish against Lille. His performance has given Nice an early indication of what he can offer after making the move to France.

The Algerian forward has now scored once in his first three appearances, while two of those matches have come as a starter.

His early impact has also added interest to his developing partnership with Wahi. The two forwards give Pantaloni attacking options that could cause problems for opponents who defend with a higher line.

For Amoura, the priority will now be to build on his promising start and continue adapting to his new team.

After only three appearances, he has already earned praise from his manager and captain while opening his Nice goalscoring account against Lille.

The early signs suggest Amoura has wasted little time making himself known at his new club.