The UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round serves up a blockbuster as French side OGC Nice hosts Portuguese giants Benfica at the Allianz Riviera. This is a high-stakes encounter between two teams who have been in strong form and are eager to secure a place in the Champions League group stage. Nice, under manager Franck Haise, will be looking to capitalize on their home advantage, while Benfica, a club with a rich European history, will be aiming to get a crucial away goal to give them an edge in the second leg.
Nice enters this match after a strong end to their domestic league campaign. They have shown their tactical adaptability and have a number of key players who can change a game. Benfica, meanwhile, has been in excellent form and boasts a strong squad with a mix of experienced veterans and exciting young talent. The winner of this two-legged tie will be one step away from the Champions League group stage, a prize that carries immense financial and sporting significance for both clubs. Expect a tactical and fast-paced game as both teams look to make their mark on the competition.
Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round (First Leg)
- Location: Nice, France
- Stadium: Allianz Riviera
- Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 3:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM CEST
- Indian Time (IST): 12:30 AM IST (Thursday, August 7, 2025)
- Referee: Michael Oliver (England)
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
There is no recent competitive head-to-head record between Nice and Benfica, making this a historic first encounter between the two clubs in recent memory. As a result, recent form and tactical preparation will be the most important factors heading into this match.
Nice:
Nice has been in mixed but promising form recently, with four wins, four losses, and two draws in their last ten matches across all competitions. They have a strong defensive structure and have shown their attacking prowess in their recent matches. At home, they have been particularly strong, winning eight of their last ten games. Key players to watch for Nice include their forwards and their dynamic midfield, which will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game. The team’s ability to create chances and be clinical in front of goal will be a key factor in this match.
- August 2, 2025: Nice 3–2 Sheffield United (Club Friendly)
- July 30, 2025: Feyenoord 1–2 Nice (Club Friendly)
- July 27, 2025: Nice 0–2 FC St. Pauli (Club Friendly)
- July 23, 2025: Nice 3–3 Nancy (Club Friendly)
Benfica:
Benfica has been in excellent form, with seven wins and three draws in their last ten matches across all competitions. They have a strong, balanced squad and a prolific attack, scoring an average of 2.8 goals per game. Their tactical flexibility and constant movement make them a difficult team to defend against. Key players to watch for Benfica include their top goal scorers, as well as their experienced defenders. The team’s ability to maintain possession and exploit spaces will be a major threat to the Nice defense.
- August 2, 2025: Sporting CP 0–1 Benfica (Portuguese Supertaça)
- July 30, 2025: Chelsea 4–1 Benfica (FIFA Club World Cup)
- July 26, 2025: Benfica 2–2 Boca Juniors (FIFA Club World Cup)
- July 23, 2025: Benfica 1–0 FC Bayern München (FIFA Club World Cup)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
This match is expected to be a tactical battle between two teams with different styles of play. Nice, known for their aggressive pressing and possession-based football, will likely look to control the tempo of the game at home. They will aim to create chances by playing through or around the Benfica press, using their dynamic attacking players. Benfica, under their tactical manager, will likely be flexible in their approach, using a variety of formations and looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Nice defense. The battle in the midfield will be key, as both teams have talented players who can dictate the flow of the game. A crucial factor will be whether Nice can contain Benfica’s prolific attack or if the Portuguese side can secure a vital away goal.
How to Watch Nice vs. Benfica on TV, Live Stream
| Country | TV/Live Stream |
|---|---|
| France | beIN SPORTS |
| Portugal | N/A |
| United States | beIN SPORTS |
| United Kingdom | N/A |
| India | N/A |
In the United States and France, the match will be broadcast live on beIN SPORTS. For other regions, broadcasting information is not yet confirmed. It is also common for some clubs to provide live streams on their official websites or YouTube channels for European qualifiers, so it is worth checking those sources.
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
