OGC Nice in Trouble After Home Defeat to Ruthless Benfica in UCL Qualifier
OGC Nice now face a monumental task in Lisbon after suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Benfica on Wednesday in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round. Despite a promising start, the French side was ultimately outclassed by a sharper, more clinical Benfica squad.
The match, held at Allianz Riviera, exposed several weaknesses in the Nice defense, and Benfica capitalized with two second-half goals to put themselves in the driver’s seat for the return leg at the Estádio da Luz.
⚽ Second-Half Goals Sink Nice’s Chances
Benfica’s offensive pressure finally paid off in the 53rd minute, when newly signed forward Franjo Ivanovic fired a brilliant left-footed half-volley into the net after a pinpoint cross from Fredrik Aursnes. Ivanovic, a summer recruit from Union Saint-Gilloise, was a constant threat throughout the game.
The second goal came late, in the 88th minute, when Florentino Luis let fly from 25 meters. The ball bounced awkwardly in front of Yehvann Diouf, who couldn’t keep it out. It was a cruel blow for Nice, who had shown resilience but were undone by a moment of individual brilliance.
🧤 Goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf Shines in Official Debut
Despite the loss, one of the standout performers for Nice was goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf, making his official debut after joining from Stade de Reims.
He made several key saves:
- A powerful direct free-kick from Richard Rios (20′)
- A dangerous low shot from Vangelis Pavlidis (32′)
- A critical one-on-one foot save after a close-range redirection from Pavlidis (39′)
Without Diouf, the scoreline could have been even worse for Francesco Farioli’s team.
🛡 Defensive Woes for Nice
OGC Nice’s backline, led by veteran Dante, was under pressure from the opening whistle. Early signs of vulnerability came as early as the 6th minute, when Andreas Schjelderup nearly capitalized on a turnover by Antoine Mendy, only to see his effort blocked by Aliou Baldé.
Then, in the 7th minute, Ivanovic had to clear a header from Nicolas Otamendi off the line following a Benfica corner.
Nice struggled to maintain composure under pressure, and their build-up play was frequently disrupted by Benfica’s high press and quick transitions.
🧮 What’s Next?
The return leg will take place on Tuesday, August 13, at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. To qualify for the Champions League play-off round, Nice must win by at least two goals to force extra time — or more to advance outright.
Benfica, on the other hand, are in a commanding position and will look to close out the tie in front of their home fans.
📊 Match Summary
| Statistic | OGC Nice | Benfica |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 46% | 54% |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 6 |
| Corners | 4 | 5 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 1 |
| Goals | 0 | 2 |
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