Nice welcome Benfica to the Allianz Riviera on Wednesday evening for the first leg of their Champions League third qualifying round clash (21:00 GMT+3). With European ambitions on the line, both teams are looking to make a strong start — but their recent continental records suggest contrasting trajectories.
Here’s my Nice vs Benfica prediction and betting analysis for this matchup.
Nice vs Benfica Tips
Nice vs Benfica Odds
| Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| Nice |
|
| Draw |
|
| Benfica |
|
*Odds correct at the time of publication and subject to change.
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Nice vs Benfica Predictions
Benfica’s away pedigree makes the difference
Benfica arrive in France on the back of a solid European campaign last season, having reached the Champions League Round of 16. Their away form was particularly impressive — victories at Juventus, Monaco, and Red Star Belgrade highlighted their ability to manage high-pressure games on the road. That experience could prove decisive against a Nice side still finding their rhythm on the European stage.
The Portuguese side come into this tie with competitive momentum, having already lifted the Portuguese Super Cup. Their tactical discipline, combined with a sharp transitional game, makes them well-suited to capitalising on Nice’s defensive lapses. While this tie is finely balanced, Benfica’s European experience and clinical edge in attack give them the upper hand in the first leg.
Tip: Benfica to Win ( at N/A)
Nice’s European struggles raise doubts
Nice failed to win a single game in the group stage of last season’s Europa League, losing to the likes of Elfsborg, Union SG, Rangers, Ferencvaros, and Lazio. Although they remained competitive in spells, the French side consistently fell short when it came to maintaining tempo and structure under pressure.
That said, they did manage to score in six of their eight continental matches — including four of their last five at home. With that in mind, a goal at the Allianz Riviera is certainly within reach, even if the overall balance of play tilts toward the visitors. Considering Benfica’s recent trend of 2-1 away wins in Europe, that scoreline offers solid value here.
Tip: Benfica 2-1 ( at N/A)
Nice vs Benfica Projected Starting Lineups
Nice
Yehvann Diouf (GK); Abdulay Juma Bah, Dante (C), Antoine Mendy, Melvin Bard; Hicham Boudaoui, Morgan Sanson, Jonathan Clauss; Badredine Bouanani, Isak Jansson, Terem Moffi.
Benfica
Anatoliy Trubin (GK); Amar Dedić, Nicolás Otamendi (C), António Silva, Samuel Dahl; Enzo Barrenechea, Fredrik Aursnes, Richard Ríos; Andreas Schjelderup, Franjo Ivanović, Vangelis Pavlidis.
