OGC Nice and Benfica are currently facing off in the Third Round of UEFA Champions League Qualification, with the first leg taking place at the Allianz Riviera in Nice on August 6, 2025. The teams have met previously in friendlies, with Benfica holding two wins over Nice and no draws or wins for Nice[1][2]. Predicted and official lineups are posted closer to kickoff, with notable selections for Nice including Yehvann Diouf in goal, Dante, Melvin Bard, Hicham Boudaoui, Morgan Sanson, and Terem Moffi[1].
Both sides are dealing with significant injury concerns. Nice has Mohamed Abdelmonem and Youssouf Ndayishimiye sidelined by cruciate ligament injuries until January 2026, while Benfica are missing Alexander Bah and Manu Silva until late October 2025, and Bruma and Kerem Akturkoglu until late August 2025[2]. Head-to-head statistics show Benfica as the stronger side historically, but Nice have impressive recent domestic form, having won 5 of their last 5 matches[3].
The second leg will be held at Benfica’s Estádio da Luz in Lisbon on August 12, 2025. The aggregate score before the first leg stands at 0-0, making this round crucial for both teams’ hopes to progress in Europe[5][6].