Nice vs Benfica: Champions League Qualifiers 2025

Nice vs Benfica: Champions League Qualifiers 2025 – Date, Kick-off, How to Watch, Predictions & More!

The UEFA Champions League 2025/26 season is already igniting with anticipation, and one of the most compelling matchups in the Third Qualifying Round pits French side OGC Nice against Portuguese giants SL Benfica. This two-legged affair is more than just a football match; it is a battle for a coveted spot in Europe’s premier club competition, with both teams eager to make their mark on the continental stage. The intense nature of this fixture, coupled with the pedigree of both clubs, positions it as a truly high-profile encounter that promises thrilling football for fans worldwide.

Table of Contents

• The Road to European Glory: Nice vs Benfica Champions League Qualifier Overview
• Nice vs Benfica Match Details: Dates, Times & Venues
• How to Watch Nice vs Benfica: TV Channels & Live Stream Options
• Nice vs Benfica Match Preview: A High-Stakes Encounter
• Team News & Squad Updates
• Recent Form & Head-to-Head Record
• Tactical Analysis: Clash of Styles
• Nice vs Benfica Prediction & Betting Tips
• The Road Ahead: What’s Next for the Winners?

The Road to European Glory: Nice vs Benfica Champions League Qualifier Overview

The draw for the UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round took place on July 21, 2025 , setting the stage for this captivating clash between OGC Nice and SL Benfica. This fixture has quickly garnered attention, being described as the “most high-profile tie” of this qualifying stage. The stakes could not be higher, as the aggregate winner will advance to the play-off round, standing just one step away from securing a place in the newly expanded Champions League league phase.

For OGC Nice, this tie represents a significant opportunity to return to Europe’s most prestigious club competition. The French club has not participated in the Champions League proper since the 1959-60 season, making this a chance to break a long-standing absence and elevate their standing in European football. On the other side, SL Benfica, a club with a rich European history and consistent presence, aims to secure their fifth consecutive season in the Champions League. This match is not merely about progression; it is about maintaining a proud European legacy and securing the substantial financial and sporting benefits that accompany participation in the Champions League group stage. The intensity of this battle is expected to be palpable, with every tactical decision and individual performance coming under immense scrutiny.

Nice vs Benfica Match Details: Dates, Times & Venues

The crucial UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round tie between Nice and Benfica will be contested over two legs, with the aggregate winner progressing to the play-off round. Fans should note the specific dates, kick-off times, and venues for both highly anticipated matches.

First Leg: Nice vs Benfica

The opening encounter will see OGC Nice host SL Benfica on home soil.

• Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
• Kick-off Time: There appears to be a notable variation in reported kick-off times for the first leg. Official club sources, such as SL Benfica’s calendar, along with major betting platforms, indicate a kick-off time of 20:00 (8:00 PM) local time. However, UEFA.com’s fixture list and some sports news outlets list

12:00 (12 PM) local time. In the context of UEFA Champions League matches, 20:00 (8 PM) is a far more common kick-off time for evening fixtures, particularly for high-profile ties. This consistency across multiple reliable sources, combined with typical UEFA scheduling practices for evening games, suggests that the 20:00 (8 PM) local time is the most accurate and definitive. The 12:00 listing might be a placeholder or an error in certain databases.

• Venue: Allianz Riviera, Nice, France.

Second Leg: Benfica vs Nice

The decisive second leg will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, where Benfica will look to capitalize on their home advantage.

• Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
• Kick-off Time: 20:00 (8:00 PM) local time. This time is consistently reported across all reliable sources, providing clear information for fans.
• Venue: Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica (Estadio da Luz), Lisbon, Portugal.

To provide a clear overview, here is the schedule for the Nice vs Benfica Champions League Qualifiers 2025:

How to Watch Nice vs Benfica: TV Channels & Live Stream Options

Catching the Nice vs Benfica Champions League Qualifiers will be crucial for fans across the globe. The broadcasting landscape for European football is often fragmented, with different rights holders in various regions. Here is a breakdown of how to watch the action unfold in key territories, noting that fans should always verify specific broadcast schedules closer to the match date due to the dynamic nature of sports rights.

Watching in France

In France, the broadcasting landscape for football is constantly evolving. While the new Ligue 1+ channel, distributed by major operators like DAZN, Orange, Bouygues Telecom, Free, and SFR, will cover domestic league matches starting August 15, Champions League qualifiers often fall under separate rights agreements. For this specific Champions League qualifier, it is highly probable that

beIN Sports and potentially Canal+ will carry the broadcast, given their historical and ongoing involvement with European football rights in France. Fans are advised to check local listings as the match approaches for definitive confirmation.

Watching in Portugal

Portuguese football enthusiasts can primarily tune into SPORTTV1 for the first leg of the tie and SPORTTV for the second leg. These channels are well-established as key broadcasters for UEFA Champions League matches within Portugal. Additionally,

RTP is listed as a rights holder for Champions League content in Portugal for the 2025-2030 cycle , while

DAZN also maintains a presence in the region for other European football competitions.

Watching in the UK

For viewers in the United Kingdom, UEFA Champions League coverage is primarily shared between TNT Sports and Amazon Prime Video. TNT Sports typically holds the rights to show the majority of matches, including the final, while Amazon Prime Video has the first pick of Tuesday evening fixtures. Given that the first leg of the Nice vs Benfica tie is scheduled for a Wednesday,

TNT Sports is the most likely broadcaster to carry the match. It is worth noting that some qualifying matches occasionally appear on BBC Scotland, BBC iPlayer, or the BBC Sport Website , potentially offering free-to-air options for certain games.

Watching in the USA

In the United States, CBS Sports holds the exclusive English-language rights for UEFA Champions League games, a deal that extends through the 2029/30 season. This means that most, if not all, matches will be streamed exclusively on

Paramount+, which offers a 7-day free trial for new subscribers. Select games may also be available on linear television via CBS and/or CBS Sports Network. For Spanish-language coverage,

Univision Deportes (TUDN) holds the broadcasting rights until the end of the 2026/27 season.

Other International Streaming Options

Fans located in other international territories should consult the official UEFA broadcasters for their specific region. Major sports streaming platforms such as DAZN and beIN Sports frequently hold broadcasting rights across multiple countries. In some instances,

UEFA.tv may also offer coverage in regions without specific broadcast deals, serving as a potential last-resort option for accessing the matches.

Nice vs Benfica Match Preview: A High-Stakes Encounter

The Nice vs Benfica Champions League Qualifier stands out as one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Third Qualifying Round. Both clubs enter this tie with significant ambitions and a clear, albeit challenging, path to the UEFA Champions League league phase. The outcome of these two legs will profoundly impact their European campaigns for the season.

OGC Nice earned their place in these qualifiers by finishing a commendable fourth in the 2024/25 Ligue 1 season. For Les Aiglons, this represents a golden opportunity to return to Europe’s elite club competition, a stage they haven’t graced in the competition proper since the 1959-60 season. Their journey, however, is arduous, requiring them to navigate two demanding rounds of qualifiers to reach the league phase. This challenging route underscores the importance of this initial tie against a seasoned European opponent.

SL Benfica, on the other hand, finished second in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, two points behind Sporting CP. Historically, a second-place finish in Portugal would often grant a more direct route into the Champions League. However, the new UEFA Champions League format, which introduces an expanded league phase and adjusts qualification paths, means Benfica must also contend with two qualifying rounds to secure their place. This added layer of difficulty for Bruno Lage’s men increases the pressure on this tie, as the Lisbon giants are aiming for their fifth consecutive season in the Champions League. This match is not just about progression; it is about maintaining their strong European pedigree and securing the significant financial and sporting benefits that come with consistent Champions League participation. The new format has made every qualifying match even more critical for established clubs like Benfica, who are driven to justify their investments and appease their passionate fanbase.

Team News & Squad Updates

Understanding the current state of each squad, including key players, injury concerns, and recent transfers, is vital for assessing the upcoming Champions League qualifier.

OGC Nice Team News

OGC Nice, now under the guidance of coach Franck Haise , has been meticulously preparing for this crucial European encounter. The squad has undergone some notable changes, particularly in key positions, as they aim to build on their strong domestic finish.

Key Players: Nice boasts a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talents. At the heart of their defense, the seasoned Dante provides crucial leadership and organizational skills. In midfield, players like

Hicham Boudaoui, Pablo Rosario, and Morgan Sanson are central figures, responsible for ball distribution and breaking up opposition play. A particularly dynamic presence in midfield is

Khephren Thuram, known for his ability to win tackles and drive play forward from deep positions, making him a pivotal figure in both defensive and offensive transitions. Upfront, the attacking threat is carried by players such as

Terem Moffi, Evann Guessand, and the in-form Badredine Bouanani, who has shown great promise in pre-season.

Injury Updates: Nice faces some significant injury concerns that could impact their tactical approach. Midfielder Sofiane Diop is currently nursing a groin injury, with his expected return set for mid-August 2025. This makes his availability for the first leg highly doubtful, though he might feature in the second. More long-term absences include key central defenders

Youssouf Ndayishimiye and Mohamed Abdelmonem, both sidelined with severe cruciate ligament injuries that are expected to keep them out until early January 2026. These are substantial blows to Nice’s defensive depth and tactical flexibility, potentially forcing coach Haise to rely on less experienced players or adjust his defensive formation. Additionally,

Mohamed-Ali Cho and Moïse Bombito also missed pre-season matches due to injury, and their readiness for competitive action remains uncertain.

Recent Transfers: Nice has seen notable departures, with experienced goalkeeper Marcin Bułka and attacker Gaetan Laborde both moving to Saudi Arabia. To address these voids, Nice has brought in

Yehvann Diouf from relegated Reims to take over in goal and Isak Jansson from Rapid Vienna to bolster the attack. These new signings will be eager to make an immediate impact in their competitive debuts and demonstrate their value to the squad.

SL Benfica Team News

SL Benfica has had a busy summer, characterized by significant investment in new signings following their second-place finish in the Primeira Liga. Coach Bruno Lage, who appears to be leading the team , is clearly focused on reclaiming domestic supremacy and making a deep run in the Champions League. The heavy investment in new players signals a strong organizational commitment to success and a heightened motivation to perform after the previous season’s domestic outcome.

Key Players: Benfica’s squad is brimming with talent across all lines, reflecting their ambition. In goal, Anatolii Trubin is a commanding and reliable presence. The defense is anchored by the experienced Argentine international

Nicolás Otamendi and the highly promising young talent António Silva, who brings composure to the backline. The midfield boasts dynamic and influential players such as

Florentino Luís, Fredrik Aursnes, and Leandro Barreiro, complemented by new additions like Enzo Barrenechea and Richard Ríos. Upfront,

Vangelis Pavlidis has been particularly prolific, described as a “real goal threat” and a “difference-maker” in recent matches. He is supported by talented wingers like

Muhammed Kerem Akturkoglu and Gianluca Prestianni, who are adept at stretching defenses.

Injury Updates: Benfica also contends with its share of injury concerns. Winger Bruma is expected to return in late August 2025 , making him a doubt for both legs of this qualifier. More significant long-term absences include defenders

Alexander Bah and Manu Silva, both sidelined with cruciate ligament injuries and not expected back until late October 2025. Coach Lage has publicly expressed concern about these early pre-season injuries, also mentioning a long-term setback for young player Nuno Félix. These defensive absences could test Benfica’s depth and force adjustments to their backline.

Recent Transfers: Benfica has indeed “invested heavily in new signings” to strengthen their squad and address areas of improvement from the previous season. While the provided information specifically mentions

Franjo Ivanovic joining from Union SG , the repeated emphasis on “new signings” and “reinforcements” suggests a broader strategy to bolster squad depth and quality across various positions. Ivanovic will add another dimension to their attacking options, competing for a spot in an already potent forward line.

Here is a summary of the key player injury statuses for both teams:

Recent Form & Head-to-Head Record

Analyzing the recent performance and historical encounters between OGC Nice and SL Benfica provides valuable context for predicting the outcome of their Champions League qualifier.

Nice’s Pre-Season Performance

OGC Nice enters this Champions League qualifier in promising form, having concluded their pre-season with a strong set of results. Across six friendly matches, Nice recorded an impressive four wins, one draw, and just one loss. Their victories included a 2-1 win against Cercle Brugge, a convincing 3-0 against Aubagne, an impressive 2-1 over Feyenoord (who are also participating in the Champions League qualifiers), and a 3-2 victory against Sheffield United. The draw came against Nancy (3-3), and their sole defeat was a 0-2 loss to St Pauli. This positive pre-season suggests that Franck Haise’s side is “hitting their stride at the right time” and has been “gradually increasing in strength”. Their end-of-season Ligue 1 form also showed resilience, with wins against Brest, Reims, Paris, and Angers , indicating a team that finished their domestic campaign strongly and carries positive momentum into the European season.

Benfica’s Pre-Season Performance

Benfica’s pre-season schedule has been somewhat distinctive due to their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup earlier in the summer, which extended their 2024/25 season until late June. Their official 2025/26 pre-season began on July 14. Despite a lighter traditional pre-season schedule, Benfica has shown strong signs of readiness and competitive edge. They secured a 3-2 friendly win against Fenerbahce and, crucially, defeated their fierce rivals Sporting CP to win the Portuguese Super Cup, with Vangelis Pavlidis scoring the decisive goal. This Super Cup victory is a competitive trophy, providing a significant confidence boost and a genuine test of their readiness compared to mere friendlies. Their Club World Cup campaign included a dominant 6-0 win over Auckland City, a 1-0 win against Bayern, a 2-2 draw with Boca Juniors, and a 1-4 loss to Chelsea. This diverse set of results demonstrates their ability to compete at a high level against varied opposition. Their recent form is described as “relentless” and characterized by a “higher win rate (68% this season, 100% in last five competitive matches)” , indicating strong momentum and a team that is well-prepared for competitive challenges.

Head-to-Head History (Nice vs Benfica H2H Record)

Historically, OGC Nice and SL Benfica have met only twice, both times in friendly matches. While these encounters do not carry the same weight as competitive fixtures, they offer a glimpse into past dynamics between the two clubs, with Benfica holding a clear advantage.

Their first encounter was on July 27, 2013, which Benfica won 2-1. The second match took place on July 15, 2022, where Benfica secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Nice. Across these two matches, Nice has scored only one goal, while Benfica has netted five. This head-to-head record, though limited to non-competitive fixtures, suggests Benfica has historically found it easier to overcome the French side. However, it is important to acknowledge that friendly matches often involve experimental lineups and tactical approaches, and therefore, this limited history may not be a definitive predictor for the high-stakes, competitive nature of a Champions League qualifier. Both teams have evolved significantly since their last meeting, with new coaches, players, and tactical philosophies.

Here is a table summarizing the head-to-head record:

Tactical Analysis: Clash of Styles

The Nice vs Benfica Champions League qualifier presents a fascinating tactical battle, with both teams operating under new guidance and aiming to impose their distinct styles. Understanding their expected formations and approaches is key to anticipating the flow of the game.

OGC Nice’s Expected Tactics

Under coach Franck Haise, OGC Nice is expected to maintain a flexible tactical approach, often employing formations such as a 4-4-2, 4-1-4-1, or even a 5-4-1, particularly when defensive solidity is prioritized. Haise’s philosophy emphasizes methodical, possession-based build-up play, reminiscent of Roberto De Zerbi’s style, a coach with whom Haise shares a close relationship. Nice demonstrates admirable patience in their build-up, aiming to draw out opponents and create space through neat third-man combinations. Their full-backs are utilized intelligently, either staying deep to invite pressure or tucking inside to bolster central midfield, providing structural security and fluid ball circulation.

Defensively, Nice is known for its concentrated and coordinated pressing, effectively directing opponents away from central areas and forcing turnovers in advanced positions. They play with a high line when pressing aggressively, using cover shadows to block passing lanes and the touchline as an additional defender. While they often opt for man-oriented schemes, Haise also incorporates more zonal setups, instructing players to position themselves to cover multiple opponents and fill passing lanes. This adaptability enhances their defensive effectiveness. The team’s solid counter-pressing immediately after losing possession is also a significant weapon, as they look to swiftly regain the ball and launch quick attacks against unsettled defenses. The attacking trio of Jeremie Boga, Terem Moffi, and Gaetan Laborde (though Laborde has since departed ) are crucial for quick transitions and set-piece threats. The midfield energy from players like Khephren Thuram, Hicham Boudaoui, and Morgan Sanson is vital for supporting runs into the final third and creating numerical superiorities out wide.

SL Benfica’s Expected Tactics

Under coach Bruno Lage, SL Benfica typically deploys a 4-2-3-1 formation, a system designed to maximize midfield structure and facilitate wide creativity. This formation allows for strong central control while providing avenues for attacking thrust from the flanks. Benfica’s approach emphasizes high possession, consistently achieving passing accuracy above 80%. This allows them to control the tempo of matches and limit opposition chances by starving them of the ball.

Defensively, the backline is anchored by the experienced Nicolás Otamendi, who brings strong organizational skills, and the composed António Silva. These two central defenders form a formidable partnership. In attack,

Vangelis Pavlidis is expected to be a primary goal threat, and his movement, combined with that of Gianluca Prestianni, is designed to stretch opposing defenses. The midfield, featuring players like

Florentino Luís and Fredrik Aursnes, will be crucial in influencing both possession retention and pressing dynamics. While Benfica’s offensive prowess is clear, their defensive record from the previous season suggests some vulnerabilities, which could be exploited by an aggressive attacking side like Nice. The tactical battle will likely center on Benfica’s ability to control possession and exploit Nice’s potential exposure in midfield when they press high.

Nice vs Benfica Prediction & Betting Tips

The Champions League Third Qualifying Round clash between Nice and Benfica is poised to be a tightly contested affair, featuring two ambitious clubs with distinct strengths.

Expert Match Prediction

Considering the recent form, squad quality, and tactical approaches of both teams, SL Benfica enters this tie as the favorites. Their strong pre-season, which included a competitive Super Cup victory over Sporting CP, demonstrates their readiness for high-stakes matches. Benfica’s squad depth and individual quality, bolstered by significant summer investments, are expected to provide them with an edge. While Nice has shown commendable form in their pre-season friendlies, the competitive intensity of Champions League qualifiers is a different challenge. The long-term injuries to key Nice defenders like Youssouf Ndayishimiye and Mohamed Abdelmonem could significantly weaken their defensive solidity against a potent Benfica attack.

Benfica’s ability to control possession and their incisive wide play, coupled with the goal-scoring threat of Vangelis Pavlidis, are likely to be decisive factors. While Nice’s aggressive pressing can create opportunities, it also risks leaving them exposed in midfield, a vulnerability that Benfica’s dynamic midfielders like Fredrik Aursnes are well-positioned to exploit. Therefore, the prediction leans towards Benfica securing a victory, potentially with a clean sheet, given their recent defensive improvements in competitive matches.

Score Prediction: Nice 0-2 Benfica

Betting Odds Analysis

The betting markets align with the assessment that Benfica are the favorites for this encounter. As of the latest odds, Benfica are priced at 2.30 to win, while Nice’s odds are 2.95, and a draw is at 2.83. This reflects the bookmakers’ confidence in Benfica’s European pedigree and their strong recent form. The “Over/Under 2.5 goals” market is finely balanced, with Under 2.5 goals at

1.68 and Over 2.5 goals at 2.15. This suggests an expectation of a relatively low-scoring game, possibly due to the defensive organization both teams can exhibit in crucial matches. The “Both Teams To Score (BTTS)” market is also closely priced, with “No” at

1.86 and “Yes” at 1.92 , indicating a slight leaning towards at least one team keeping a clean sheet.

Top Betting Tip

Considering the analysis, a particularly valuable betting tip for this match is to back Benfica to Win (Draw No Bet). This option offers a safety net, as your stake is returned if the match ends in a draw. Benfica’s superior squad quality, strong competitive form (including their Super Cup win), and clear motivation to qualify for the Champions League group stage make them a reliable choice. While Nice will be a tough opponent at home, Benfica’s ability to control the tempo and exploit defensive gaps should see them through.

Pick: Benfica Draw No Bet

Odds: 1.83 (via 22Bet, as per snippet)

Another compelling option, given Benfica’s direct attacking approach and the individual quality of players like Aktürkoglu, is Benfica to open the score. Their offensive firepower and desire to assert dominance early in the game could lead to an early goal.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for the Winners?

The winner of the Nice vs Benfica Third Qualifying Round tie will face another significant challenge in the play-off round. The draw for the play-off round took place on August 4, 2025. The victors of this high-profile clash will then compete against the winners of the tie between

Fenerbahce and Feyenoord. This means that regardless of who emerges victorious from the Nice vs Benfica encounter, they will face another strong European team, making the path to the Champions League league phase exceptionally challenging.

The play-off round itself is scheduled for two legs, on August 19/20 and August 26/27, 2025. Success in the play-offs is paramount, as it guarantees a spot in the lucrative and prestigious Champions League league phase, offering significant financial rewards and the opportunity to compete against Europe’s elite. For the losing team of the Nice vs Benfica tie, their European journey for the 2025/26 season will conclude, underscoring the immense importance of these two qualifying matches.

The Champions League Third Qualifying Round fixture between OGC Nice and SL Benfica is set to be a captivating and fiercely contested battle. Benfica enters the tie as the favored side, backed by a strong pre-season, a competitive Super Cup victory, and a squad enhanced by significant summer investments. Their consistent presence in European competitions and determination to secure a fifth consecutive Champions League appearance further underscore their motivation.

Nice, while showing promising pre-season form, faces a formidable challenge, particularly with key defensive players sidelined by long-term injuries. The tactical clash between Nice’s methodical build-up and aggressive pressing and Benfica’s high-possession, creative 4-2-3-1 formation will be central to the outcome. While historical head-to-head results favor Benfica, the unique pressures of a Champions League qualifier mean that every moment on the pitch will count. Ultimately, Benfica’s superior squad depth and competitive edge are expected to see them through this high-stakes encounter, paving their way to the play-off round and closer to the coveted Champions League league phase.