Porto vs Nice: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
FC Porto will look to regain momentum in their Europa League campaign when they host OGC Nice at Estadio do Dragao this Thursday. This game marks the first-ever encounter between the two teams. Porto is eager to return to winning ways after a disappointing stretch, while Nice struggles to find form.
Match Preview: Porto vs Nice
Porto started the Europa League season strong, winning their initial two matches against Salzburg and Red Star Belgrade. However, they have not won in their last two outings, suffering a loss to Nottingham Forest and a draw against Utrecht. Despite these setbacks, Porto remains a formidable opponent, currently holding 14 victories in 17 matches across all competitions this season.
Porto’s domestic league performance is notable, as they are three points clear at the top of the Primeira Liga. They also progressed in the Portuguese Cup, securing a convincing 3-0 win against Sintrense. Their home record in the Europa League group stage is worth mentioning, with seven wins in their last eleven matches.
Nice’s Struggles in the League Phase
In stark contrast, Nice has had a dismal run in the Europa League, having lost all four of their group matches thus far. Their recent defeats include losses to Roma, Fenerbahce, Celta Vigo, and Freiburg. Sitting second from the bottom of the group standings, Nice is one of only two teams yet to secure a point. This streak has extended to 14 matches without a win in main draw European competitions.
Following a heavy 5-1 defeat to Marseille, Nice finds itself in ninth place in Ligue 1. Their away form has been particularly weak, with just one win from nine away games this season. A draw against Porto, although unlikely, would offer some respite from their current malaise.
Team News
Porto Updates
- Jan Bednarek and Victor Froholdt are expected to return to the squad after injury.
- Luuk de Jong has made a brief return from a knee injury.
- First-choice goalkeeper Diogo Costa is set to start, with Samu Omorodion leading the line.
Nice Updates
- Sofiane Diop is doubtful following his injury against Marseille.
- Defensive struggles continue with several players out due to injuries.
- Jonathan Clauss returns after serving a suspension.
Predicted Lineups
| Porto | Nice |
|---|---|
| D. Costa | Diouf |
| A Costa, Bednarek, Kiwior, Moura | Mendy, Bah, Bard |
| Eustaquio, Rosario, Veiga | Clauss, Sanson, Vanhoutte, Abdi |
| Sainz, Aghehowa, Pepe | Boga, Carlos, Cho |
As the matchup approaches, predictions lean towards Porto securing a convincing 3-1 victory, continuing Nice’s troubles in the Europa League. The defense of Nice remains a critical area of concern, and Porto’s robust form will likely exploit these weaknesses.
