Benfica vs Nice Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 12/8/2025

Benfica are in a commanding position ahead of their UEFA Champions League qualifier second leg against Nice, having secured a convincing 2–0 win in the opening match. The Portuguese side displayed dominance across the pitch, both in possession and execution. Franjo Ivanović opened the scoring with a clinical finish, and Florentino doubled the lead late on with a long-range strike that caught goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf off guard in his first European appearance.

With the aggregate advantage, Benfica return home with confidence and continuity. Roger Schmidt’s side controlled midfield thanks to the disciplined play of Fredrik Aursnes and Richard Ríos, while newcomers such as Juma Bah brought added dynamism. Schmidt is expected to keep his lineup largely unchanged for the return fixture at Estádio da Luz, with Ríos likely to retain his starting spot.

Injury Woes and Tactical Concerns for Nice

Nice face a daunting task in Lisbon after a frustrating display on home soil. Their problems were compounded when midfielder Morgan Sanson left the pitch early due to a hamstring issue. While Hicham Boudaoui provided a rare highlight with a strong individual performance—winning 10 of 12 duels—Nice otherwise lacked cohesion and sharpness.

Debutants Antoine Mendy and Juma Bah struggled defensively, and although Diouf made several key saves, his late lapse allowed Benfica to extend their lead. Forward Evann Guessand remains sidelined and is on the verge of completing a €35 million transfer to Aston Villa, leaving coach Francesco Farioli to explore alternatives in attack. One possibility is Vangelis Pavlidis, whose more direct style could offer a sharper threat.

Tactical Outlook and Match Expectations

Benfica’s strategy of high pressing and quick transitions proved difficult for Nice to handle in the first leg, especially with their wide players delivering precise balls into the box—Aursnes’ assist to Ivanović being a prime example. At home, Benfica are expected to press even harder, using the energy of the crowd to maintain control and kill the tie early.

For Nice to have any chance, they must solidify their defensive lines and bypass Benfica’s midfield press. Leveraging Boudaoui’s creativity in transition could help, but structural adjustments will be crucial if they’re to slow down the hosts’ momentum.

Prediction

Benfica’s strong recent form and home advantage place them in the driver’s seat. Although Nice may manage to find the net—particularly through a moment of brilliance from Pavlidis or Boudaoui—the overall flow of the match is likely to favor the hosts. Benfica’s cohesion, attacking threat, and tactical discipline make them clear favorites to advance.

Benfica’s home matches in the Champions League have consistently delivered entertainment, with 15 of their last 18 featuring three or more goals. Nice’s recent away games also trend high-scoring, with seven of their last ten exceeding the 2.5-goal mark. Fans can expect an open game with plenty of action at both ends, though ultimately, Benfica should emerge with a decisive victory.

Prediction: Benfica 3:1 Nice