Benfica`s recent record signing, Richard Rios, is anticipated to make his debut start when the Portuguese giants face OGC Nice in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round on Wednesday.
The match, set to take place at the Allianz Riviera, sees Benfica enter as favorites despite facing several key absences. Notable players out for Bruno Lage`s squad include Tomás Araujo, Alexander Bah, Manu Silva, and Kerem Aktürkoglu.
Rios, a summer acquisition, is expected to anchor the midfield. In defense, Amar Dedic, who spent last season on loan at Olympique de Marseille, is projected to start alongside experienced Argentina international Nicolas Otamendi. Upfront, Vangelis Pavlidis is set to lead the attack for the Eagles.
Predicted Benfica Lineup vs OGC Nice
- Goalkeeper: Anatoliy Trubin
- Defenders: Samuel Dahl, Nicolas Otamendi, Antonio Silva, Amar Dedic
- Midfielders: Andreas Schjelderup, Richard Rios, Leandro Barreiro, Enzo Barrenechea, Fredrik Aursunes
- Forward: Vangelis Pavlidis