Nice vs Freiburg – Europa League Group Stage Preview and Prediction
Match Overview
Nice have been struggling badly in recent weeks, and their Europa League campaign has been particularly disappointing. The French side have lost all three of their group matches so far, collecting zero points and sitting at the bottom of the table. Their chances of advancing to the knockout stages are now hanging by a thread.
The team’s problems extend to both ends of the pitch. In their last 15 matches across all competitions, Nice have scored only 19 goals while conceding 24 — a clear sign of imbalance between attack and defense. To make matters worse, several key players will be missing for this crucial fixture.
Star striker Sofiane Diop, who has scored 6 goals in 13 appearances this season, is sidelined with an injury. His absence is a major blow to the team’s attacking power. At the back, defensive mainstay Jonathan Clauss is suspended due to a red card, while veteran Brazilian Dante remains out with a knee injury. These absences further weaken an already fragile defense.
Freiburg Team News & Form
In contrast, Freiburg have been in solid form. Over their last 10 competitive games, they’ve registered 4 wins, 5 draws, and just 1 defeat. In the Europa League, they’ve impressed with 2 wins and 1 draw from their first three matches, earning 7 points and sitting near the top of their group.
Their defense has been the cornerstone of their success. Freiburg have conceded only 8 goals in their last 10 games — an average of less than one per match — and just 0.67 goals per game in the Europa League.
A major boost for this match is the return of Philipp Lienhart, the defensive leader who has started all 11 competitive games he’s played this season. His comeback will add strength and stability to an already well-organized backline.
Tactical Outlook
The contrast between the two teams could not be clearer. Nice are in crisis, having lost all three group matches, while Freiburg remain unbeaten and confident. Although Nice tend to perform better at home and can create chances, the absence of several key players — particularly Diop — will significantly reduce their attacking threat.
Freiburg, meanwhile, are tactically disciplined and defensively resilient. Even though their away scoring rate isn’t high, their control of tempo and structure should allow them to dictate the rhythm of the game against an injury-hit Nice.
Betting Odds
Outcome | Odds (Estimated by Major Bookmakers) |
|---|---|
Nice Win | 2.90 |
Draw | 3.20 |
Freiburg Win | 2.45 |
Prediction
Considering the form, injury situation, and defensive solidity of Freiburg, the visitors are expected to avoid defeat. Nice’s depleted lineup and poor momentum make it difficult to see them turning things around here.
Recommended Pick: Draw or Freiburg Win (X2)
