It was supposed to be Sporting Lisbon, but it will ultimately be Lazio of Rome who will challenge the “eagles” in a preparation match tonight from 8 PM at the Stade du Ray. A match that will have a European flavor just a few days before the resumption of the French championship.
The recent winner of the Italian Cup, qualified for the group stage of the Europa League, will thus be the opponent in the only preparation match played at the Ray, on Wednesday, July 31 at 8 PM.
7th in the last Italian league standings, Vladimir Petkovic’s men will be using this opportunity to prepare for the Italian Super Cup match, which pits the champion against the Italian Cup winner, playing against Juventus of Turin on August 18.
Two nights ago, in a friendly match in Siena (Serie B), Lazio lost 1-0.
This match will also be an occasion to see Honorato Ederson, a former “eagle,” return to Stade du Ray.
This high-level clash is on the menu for the Nice team, who will soon know the name of their European opponent for the playoff round to qualify for the group stage of the Europa League.
After a short defeat against Benfica (2-1), Claude Puel’s men will certainly be eager to do their best for this opening match on Nice turf.
Tickets for the match against Sporting Portugal remain valid.
Lazio of Rome is one of the oldest Italian football clubs. It was founded in 1900 and is considered sixth in terms of fan base (1.2 million).
Their supporters gather at the Stadio Olimpico in Curva Nord and are known for their political militancy in post-fascist groups.
The “biancocelesti” have an impressive record of national and international titles:
Italian Championship (2): 1974 and 2000
Italian Cup (6): 1958, 1998, 2000, 2004, 2009, and 2013
Italian Super Cup (3): 1998, 2000, and 2009
Cup Winners’ Cup: 1999
UEFA Super Cup: 1999
UEFA Cup: 1998
So, see you tomorrow at 8 PM at the Stade du Ray, to find out if the “eagles” are still as unbeatable in their nest!
