Forecast: Benfica vs Nice - Gaming Strategies, Squad Updates, Crucial Statistics
In the recent Champions League second-leg match, Benfica cemented their place in the next qualifying round with a 2-0 home victory over Nice, completing a 4-0 aggregate win. The match, held at a buzzing Estádio da Luz on August 12, 2025, was marked by Benfica's strong performance and a lacklustre showing from the French side, who were missing key players due to injuries and transfers [1][2].
Benfica's offense was in fine form, with Fredrik Aursnes and Andreas Schjelderup scoring early in the second half to put the game beyond doubt [1][3]. The Portuguese side's defense also held firm, denying Nice any goals or meaningful comeback opportunities [1][2].
Nice, on the other hand, were hampered by the absences of Dante, Morgan Sanson, Youssouf Ndayishimiye, and Evann Guessand. This severely weakened their squad, making it difficult for them to mount a serious challenge [2].
Key players for Benfica included Aursnes and Schjelderup, who between them scored two goals and provided an assist. Vangelis Pavlidis, who claimed the team's Golden Boot last season with 19 Primeira Liga strikes, spearheaded the attack [4].
Nice will now refocus on their Ligue 1 campaign following their elimination from the Champions League. They face an almighty challenge if they are to stage a sensational turnaround in the second leg, having lost the first leg 2-0 at home [6].
Benfica, on the other hand, continue to impress under manager Bruno Lage. They have not suffered a competitive defeat within 90 minutes since returning from the international break in March [7]. The best odds for Benfica to win the second leg are 2/3, provided by Dachbet [5].
The second leg match will take place in Lisbon, where Benfica have not kept a clean sheet away at top-flight opposition since November 2nd. However, they scored 19 goals in their final six domestic matches in Lisbon last season [6].
Nicolas Otamendi will start at the heart of Benfica's defence, while Tanguy Ndombele will miss the match for Nice due to an injury [5]. Benfica won the Super Cup on July 31st, beating Sporting Lisbon 1-0 [8].
In summary, Benfica's dominance in this tie was evident, reflecting their stronger squad depth and home advantage. They will be confident of securing another victory in the second leg, while Nice face a tough task in seeking a comeback.
References: 1. Champions League: Benfica vs Nice – Second-Leg Match Report 2. Nice Miss Key Players in Champions League Loss to Benfica 3. Benfica's Home Advantage Shines in Champions League Win Against Nice 4. Benfica's Golden Boot Winner Vangelis Pavlidis to Lead Attack 5. Dachbet Offers Odds for Benfica to Win Second Leg Against Nice 6. Nice Face Sensational Challenge in Champions League Second Leg 7. Benfica's Unbeaten Run Continues After Champions League Win 8. Benfica Win Super Cup: Beating Sporting Lisbon 1-0
The sports news remains focused on the football world, specifically the Champions League. Benfica's team news for the second-leg match against Nice includes key players like Fredrik Aursnes, Andreas Schjelderup, and Vangelis Pavlidis, who were instrumental in their 4-0 aggregate win [1][3][4]. On the other hand, European leagues will be watching Nice closely as they face a challenging task in attempting a comeback in the Champions League, having lost several crucial players due to injuries and transfers [2]. The rematch is set to take place in Lisbon, with Benfica having the upper hand based on their recent strong performance at home [6][7][8].
