Benfica take the first leg in France over Nice

Benfica delivered a masterclass performance, securing a 2-0 win against  Nice in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round at Allianz Riviera. The Portuguese giants showcased their European pedigree, taking a significant step toward the group stage with a disciplined and clinical display.

The match was a tale of two halves. The first half saw both teams probing cautiously, with Benfica holding slightly more possession (52.6%) but struggling to break through Nice’s organized defense. Nice, despite their home advantage and a strong Ligue 1 campaign last season, managed only two shots on goal. 

The tide turned in the second half when Franjo Ivanovic opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Aursnes to slot the ball past Nice’s goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf. Florentino Luis sealed the victory in the 88th minute with a stunning long-range strike, leaving Diouf helpless.
 

Benfica’s tactical discipline under Bruno Lage was evident, with their 4-2-3-1 formation stifling Nice’s transitions. Despite missing key players like Tomas Araujo. Kerem Akturkoglu and Bruma, Benfica’s depth shone through, with Vangelis Pavlidis and Aursnes dictating play. Nice, hampered by injuries to Mohamed Abdelmonem and others, struggled to create clear chances.

The result gives Benfica a strong advantage heading into the second leg at home in Lisbon, to move into the playoff stage where either Feyenoord or Fenerbahce will await for a place into this season's Champions League, league phase.