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Prediction published on Jan 28, 2026 6:04 AM by Dario in Europe - Europa League | Modified on Jan 28, 2026 6:04 AM
The final round of the Europa League league phase brings an intriguing clash between Ludogorets and Nice. The Bulgarian side, currently sitting 25th in the standings, will host the French outfit, who occupy 33rd place. With only one point separating Ludogorets from the top 24 and a potential spot in the knockout stage, this match carries significant weight for the home team. For Nice, already eliminated from the competition, pride and momentum are the only prizes left to play for.
Ludogorets enter this decisive fixture after a narrow 1–0 defeat to Rangers on January 22, a result that temporarily halted their strong run of form. Despite that setback, the Bulgarian champions have shown consistency in recent weeks, recording 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat in their last five matches across all competitions. During this stretch, they have averaged 2.2 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per game, highlighting both their attacking potential and occasional defensive lapses.
In the Europa League, Ludogorets have posted a record of 3 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses, scoring an average of 1.6 goals while conceding 2.0 per match. Their home form has been particularly encouraging, as they remain unbeaten in their last four home fixtures in all competitions. The Eagles have also been involved in entertaining matches at home, with Over 1.5 goals scored in each of their last 11 Europa League home games. Furthermore, Over 0.5 goals at half time have been recorded in their last 11 home matches, and at least one goal has been scored in the second half of their last 14 Europa League home fixtures.
However, defensive stability remains a concern. Ludogorets have conceded at least one goal in each of their last 12 Europa League matches. Despite this, their attacking rhythm and ability to start games strongly—having led at half time in six of their last ten matches—make them a dangerous opponent, especially on home soil where they tend to dictate the tempo early on.
Nice approach this encounter with little at stake, having already been eliminated from the Europa League. Their campaign has been disappointing, with a record of 1 win and 6 defeats in the competition, averaging 1.0 goal scored and 2.0 conceded per match. The French side finally ended their winless run in Europe last week with a 3–1 victory over G.A. Eagles, but that result came too late to alter their fate.
Domestically, Nice showed signs of improvement with a convincing 4–1 win over Nantes on January 25, suggesting that their attack is regaining confidence. Over their last five matches in all competitions, they have recorded 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat, scoring an average of 2.0 goals while conceding 1.8. Yet, their away form remains a major weakness. Nice have lost their last 10 away matches in the Europa League and have conceded at least one goal in each of their last 19 away fixtures in all competitions.
In terms of match dynamics, Nice’s games tend to be open and high-scoring. Over 0.5 goals at half time have been recorded in each of their last 14 matches, while Over 0.5 goals in the second half have occurred in their last 11 away fixtures. However, their tendency to start slowly has cost them, as they have lost at half time in 8 of their last 12 matches. This pattern could prove costly again against a Ludogorets side that often begins matches on the front foot.
This fixture presents a clear contrast in motivation. Ludogorets are fighting for survival in the competition, while Nice are playing for pride. The Bulgarian side’s attacking consistency and strong home record make them favorites to secure a positive result. Their matches tend to feature goals, with both teams often finding the net, as reflected by the 57% probability for Both Teams To Score – Yes. Meanwhile, the Over 2.5 goals market also appears promising, with a 57% likelihood according to the data.
For Nice, the challenge will be to overcome their poor away record and defensive fragility. They have struggled to keep clean sheets, and their tendency to concede early could once again put them on the back foot. Ludogorets, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on their attacking momentum and home advantage to push for the win that could see them advance to the knockout stage.
Given the current form and statistical trends, this match is expected to be lively, with chances at both ends. Ludogorets’ attacking efficiency and Nice’s defensive vulnerabilities suggest that goals are likely, particularly in the first half, where both teams have consistently been involved in early scoring action.
Ludogorets vs Nice prediction from BetMines: Over 2.5 goals with 57% probability.
This section provides average statistics and percentages on the main markets for the last 10 matches of both teams
Ludogorets
Nice
Under
Over
Under
Over
0.5
2
8
2
8
1.5
7
3
2
8
2.5
8
2
7
3
3.5
10
0
8
2
4.5
10
0
10
0