Portuguese giants SL Benfica took a decisive step toward the UEFA Champions League group stage after securing a solid 2-0 away win over French side OGC Nice in the first leg of the third qualifying round. With this result, the Águias remain unbeaten in regulation time for 19 consecutive matches (W13, D6), showcasing their form and experience on the European stage.
First Half: High Energy, Missed Chances
Both sides came into this crucial fixture with much to prove. While Benfica had the advantage of recent competitive action through the FIFA Club World Cup, Nice were making their first official appearance of the season. The opening half was a tightly contested affair, with Andreas Schjelderup and Terem Moffi testing their respective defences early on.
The biggest moment of the first half came when Benfica’s Vangelis Pavlidis was brilliantly denied by Nice goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf, keeping the game goalless at the break despite an array of attacking plays.
Second Half: Benfica Break Through
Benfica came out with purpose after halftime, looking to extend their impressive 20-game scoring streak in all competitions. Their efforts bore fruit in the 53rd minute, when Fredrik Aursnes delivered a pinpoint cross that Franjo Ivanović expertly turned in.
Nice tried to push back, but struggled to break through Bruno Lage’s disciplined defensive setup. A powerful long-range strike from Florentino Luís late in the game sealed the deal, as the ball bounced past Diouf to double Benfica’s lead.
Advantage Benfica Ahead of Second Leg
With a two-goal cushion heading into the return leg in Portugal, Benfica are firm favourites to reach the UEFA Champions League group stage once again. Having made it to the knockout rounds in three of the past four seasons, the Lisbon-based club continues to assert its European pedigree.
Meanwhile, Nice faces a mountain to climb. The French side, aiming for their first Champions League appearance since the 1959/60 season, will need a near-perfect performance to overturn the deficit in Lisbon.
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Conclusion: Benfica Poised for Group Stage Return
Benfica’s away win over OGC Nice has set the tone for their Champions League campaign. As the second leg looms, the Águias are in the driver’s seat. For fans across Tanzania and beyond, this UCL qualifier has already delivered top-tier football action, with more drama expected in the return fixture.
Stay tuned for more Champions League insights, results, and betting tips only here.
