Get ready for an exciting game as OGC Nice faces Rangers FC in the Europa League Group Stage on November 28, 2024. The match kicks off at 21:00 at Allianz Riviera in Nice, France. It’s Round 5, and both teams are set to battle. Nice is pushing for a top-six spot in Ligue 1, while Rangers consistently shines in the Scottish Premiership, having secured second place last season.
This match is crucial for Nice to keep their playoff dreams alive. In their last Europa League outing, they drew 2-2 with FC Twente, proving their attacking strength. On the other hand, Rangers boast a strong record, staying unbeaten in their last five away games in the competition, highlighting their solid defense.
The last meeting between these teams was in 2020, a friendly where Rangers won 2-0. This adds an interesting historical twist to this competitive match.
Nice vs Rangers Prediction & Betting Tip
Expect a close game, with both teams showing solid tactics. Thanks to the home advantage and their urgent need for a win, Nice might just edge past Rangers.
| Nice vs Rangers Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Nice to win | 1.9 – 1.95 |
We suggest betting on Nice to win. Playing at Allianz Riviera gives Nice an upper hand, and their recent performances show resilience. Still, Rangers’ strong defensive record should not be ignored, setting the stage for a tactical match-up.
Nice vs Rangers Odds
Looking at the odds, Nice is the slight favorite. This reflects both their home advantage and recent good form.
| Nice vs Rangers Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Nice Win | 1.9 |
| Draw | 3.2 |
| Rangers Win | 3.4 |
The odds suggest a tough game for Rangers, especially with Nice’s recent form against strong teams. A draw is possible, given both teams’ strong defenses. A low-scoring game under three goals aligns with Nice’s preference for tight, strategic contests.
Nice Team Analysis
Nice Recent Performance
Nice is in good form, unbeaten in their last three matches with two wins and a draw. Their recent 2-2 draw with Twente showed their ability to fight back. Wins against Lille and Montpellier have strengthened their league position.
| Recent Matches | Result |
|---|---|
| Twente vs Nice | 2-2 (Draw) |
| Nice vs Lille | 1-0 (Win) |
| Montpellier vs Nice | 0-2 (Win) |
While consistently scoring – in 19 out of 20 matches – Nice has had trouble in defense, allowing multiple goals. The injury of top scorer Terem Moffi forces a tactical change under coach Franck Haise.
Nice Key Players
Jeremie Boga leads Nice’s attack as their top scorer. His role is crucial in breaking down Rangers’ defense. Tanguy Ndombele adds creativity in midfield, and Marcin Bulka is reliable between the posts.
Other key players are Tom Louchet with his impressive free kicks, and Pablo Rosario who enhances Nice’s possession game. Sofiane Diop is vital in moving the ball from defense to attack.
Nice Suspensions & Injuries
Injuries affect Nice, with key players out, which might impact depth and require tactical changes.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Terem Moffi | Cruciate ligament | April 2025 |
| Morgan Sanson | Ankle injury | December 2024 |
| Antoine Mendy | Ankle injury | December 2024 |
| Mohamed Abdelmonem | Calf Injury | Few weeks |
| Ali Abdi | Hamstring Injury | Early December 2024 |
| Jonathan Clauss | Thigh injury | Few weeks |
These injuries mean Nice must rely on young talent to fill gaps, changing formations and gameplay.
Nice Tactics and Formation
Nice is likely to use a 3-4-3 formation, common under Franck Haise. This mixes strong midfield control with quick transitions, effective against tough teams.
Veteran defender Dante will lead the defense with his experience. The midfield will focus on controlling the game’s rhythm, using wing-backs like Hicham Boudaoui for offensive moves. Jeremie Boga is central in attack, with young prospects Evann Guessand and Arnaud Kalimuendo supporting him. Nice can switch between defensive and offensive styles, key to challenging Rangers’ strong defense.
Rangers Team Analysis
Rangers Recent Performance
Rangers have shown strong form, unbeaten in three of their past five matches.
| Recent Matches | Result |
|---|---|
| Olympiacos vs Rangers | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Rangers vs Hearts | 2-0 (Win) |
| Aberdeen vs Rangers | 1-3 (Win) |
The draw with Olympiacos showed their solid European play. They focus on disciplined defense, scoring six goals in recent matches, showing efficient attacks. Despite a loss to Celtic, their Europa League performance has been steady.
Rangers Key Players
Key players include Tom Lawrence, a critical forward despite some fitness worries. Cyriel Dessers adds strength to their attack, and John Souttar is key in defense and set-pieces.
In midfield, Jose Cifuentes offers creativity, while Nico Raskin handles his duties well. Newcomer Robin Pröpper seeks a starting spot, and Jack Butland is essential in goal.
Rangers Suspensions & Injuries
Injuries could affect Rangers’ attack, especially with creative players like Tom Lawrence and Rabbi Matondo facing fitness issues.
| Player | Injury | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Rabbi Matondo | Hamstring | Training |
| Oscar Cortes | Knock | Imminent |
| Tom Lawrence | Knock | Doubtful |
| Neraysho Kasanwirjo | Knee | January 2025 |
Kasanwirjo’s absence is a challenge for Rangers’ defense. The team is careful in getting full squad fitness for this key match.
Rangers Tactics and Formation
Rangers are expected to play in a 4-3-3 formation. This strategy focuses on defensive strength and quick counter-attacks. They aim to force turnovers with high pressing, thanks to dynamic midfielders like Raskin and Barron.
The forward lineup, led by Dessers and Lawrence, is ready to exploit any Nice defensive mistakes, using set-pieces effectively. Coach Clement’s tactical plans focus on countering Nice, using high-press strategies.
Nice vs Rangers Head-to-Head Statistics
Meetings between these teams are rare, the last being a friendly where Rangers won 2-0 in 2020.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Nice | Rangers | 0-2 |
Playing in a continental competition brings new tactical challenges. Nice faces past results against Scottish foes, while Rangers’ current away form is strong in contrast to Nice’s recent attacking success. Key factors include set-piece exploitation and smart defensive turnover management. Both teams bring evolved strategies, promising a gripping encounter.
Venue and Weather
The Allianz Riviera is known for its vibrant atmosphere during European nights and will host this vital match. Forecasts predict good playing conditions with scattered clouds and a comfortable 15°C temperature. Little wind means ideal conditions for executing strategies and fast-paced play. With the dry pitch ideal for smooth play, both teams can fully express their tactics, making for an exciting Europa League contest.
