OGC Nice’s hopes of securing UEFA Champions League football for the 2025/26 season took a major hit following a 2-0 defeat at home to SL Benfica.
Despite creating several opportunities, Nice were wasteful in front of goal, registering only two shots on target from 12 attempts.
Terem Moffi, making his first start in nearly fifteen months, came close in the 40th minute with a left-footed effort that only grazed Anatoliy Trubin’s outer net.
Moffi nearly turned provider early in the second half, linking up well with Jonathan Clauss, whose effort from the center of the box lacked power and failed to trouble the Benfica goalkeeper.
The 26-year-old forward was involved in most of Nice’s attacking play before being subbed off in the second half.
Nice now face a daunting task as they head to Lisbon for the return leg, needing a dramatic turnaround to keep their Champions League dreams alive.
