Mario Balotelli’s luck ran out as French leader Nice lost 1-0 away to Caen on Sunday for its first league defeat of the season.
Croatian striker Ivan Santini’s penalty put the Normandy side ahead near half-time, and Balotelli hit the post with a first-time shot in the 63rd minute.
Moments earlier, he set up strike partner Alassane Plea, whose curling effort went just over.
Balotelli, who had six goals in five league games before the match, was booked late on for fouling Ronny Rodelin after the striker skillfully moved past him.
Nice’s defeat leaves it three points clear of second-place Monaco and six ahead of defending Paris Saint-Germain.
PSG can move level on points with Monaco by beating Rennes at home on Sunday evening.
Metz host Saint-Etienne in Sunday’s other game.
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