Nice — Roma : Match Preview and Prediction for September 24,2025

Nice’s Season Challenges

Frank Haise’s squad has endured a challenging start to the current campaign, notably exiting the Champions League qualifiers after consecutive 0-2 defeats to Benfica. In Ligue 1, the red-and-blacks have also struggled to find their rhythm early on, which can be partly attributed to squad restructuring. While they did secure two hard-fought home victories (1-0 against Nantes and 3-1 versus Auxerre), their inconsistent form is highlighted by a 1-3 loss to the modest Le Havre, a 0-1 home defeat against Toulouse, and a crushing 1-4 away loss to Brest right before their Europa League debut, a match where the outcome was sealed rather swiftly.

Squad Weaknesses and Absences

Haise’s second year at the helm of Nice appears less promising than his inaugural season; the team’s strength diminished during the offseason. Consequently, bookmakers are justified in labeling them as underdogs against Roma at home. For this particular match, Nice will be without Ndashimiye, Abdel Monem, Ndombele, Dante, and Coulibaly – a significant blow that exposes clear defensive vulnerabilities, both in terms of personnel and overall quality.

Roma’s New Era under Gasperini

Following a 5th-place finish last season under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, Roma has embarked on a new chapter with Gian Piero Gasperini, a renowned advocate for high-intensity pressing, a style once emulated by Frank Haise during his tenure at Lens.

Early Season Form and Performance

Under Gasperini, the Giallorossi have navigated the initial four rounds of the Italian championship with a balanced, disciplined, and reliable approach. This has been somewhat surprising, but it seems the new coach is successfully establishing a connection with the team, and three victories in their opening four league fixtures are certainly a welcome sight for ‘Wolves’ fans.

Derby Victory and Team Morale

Last weekend, Gasperini faced a crucial test in the Olimpico derby against a coaching veteran of similar standing. Roma emerged victorious over Lazio with a 1-0 scoreline, thanks to Pellegrini’s goal late in the first half. The Romans once again kept a clean sheet (for the third time in four matches this season) and displayed a balanced performance leading to an effective result. The visitors travel to Nice with high spirits, though they will be missing Bailey and Dybala due to injuries, both ruled out for this fixture.