Match: UEFA Champions League
Fixture: OGC Nice VS Benfica
Local kick-off time: 21:00 on August 6
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Handicap Prediction:
Benfica -0.25 (Asian Handicap)
Away Win (European Odds)
Predicted Scores: 0-1, 0-2
Predicted Total Goals: 1, 2
Comprehensive Analysis:
Though not regarded as one of Ligue 1’s elite clubs, OGC Nice have made consistent strides in recent years. Last season, they clinched a top-four finish in the league with an impressive +25 goal difference—even outperforming Monaco, who finished above them in the standings. Over the offseason, the club retained its core squad while adding strategic reinforcements, further bolstering their overall strength. OGC Nice have also carried strong form into preseason, recording four wins and one loss in friendly matches. Their summer signings include Swedish forward Jansson from Rapid Vienna, goalkeeper Diouf from Reims, and defender Kojo Peprah Opoku from Norrköping.
Benfica may have narrowly missed out on the league title last season, but their progress compared to the previous campaign has been substantial, and the team has shown no signs of being disheartened. The club has invested heavily in strengthening its squad during the offseason, with notable highlights including a victory over Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup and a morale-boosting win against rivals Sporting Lisbon in the recent Portuguese Super Cup. Benfica’s summer transfer activity has been robust: they acquired forward Ivanović from Union Saint-Gilloise for €22.8 million, midfielder Ríos from Palmeiras for €27 million, defender Dedić from Red Bull Salzburg for €12 million, defender Obrador from Castilla for €5 million, and defender Dalot from Roma for €9 million—all moves aimed at sustaining their competitiveness in the new season.
Summary:
Initial Asian Handicap markets generally opened with Benfica -0.25, with some briefly adjusting to a level stake before reverting to the original line. This fluctuation indicates a temporary softening of bookmakers’ support for Benfica. In terms of squad valuation, OGC Nice stand at €197 million, while Benfica’s squad is valued at €332 million, giving the Portuguese side a clear edge in overall strength.
Last season, OGC Nice failed to secure a single victory in the Europa League, whereas Benfica progressed to the Champions League round of 16—underscoring Benfica’s superior track record in European competitions. Considering these factors, Benfica emerge as the more compelling choice for this fixture.
