OGC Nice vs FC Lokomotiv Moscow Betting Tips, Preview & Predictions

The French Riviera-based club may be the favourites to earn a first leg advantage, but this is by no means a foregone conclusion. Nice have been inconsistent all season, trouncing champions Monaco 4-0 one week and then losing to rock bottom Metz another. The current three-game losing run is in stark contrast to their opponents who are unbeaten in their last seven league matches.

Nice are 5/6 to triumph on the night and much will depend on which Balotelli takes to the field. To his credit, the maverick Italian has already eclipsed his debut season’s tally and is one shy of 20 goals. Balotelli is capable of the spectacular and this ability may be needed to unlock opposition high on confidence.

Lokomotiv Moscow are 10/3 to claim a momentous victory and put one foot in the next round. Barring a major slip up, the Red-Greens will win their first league title in 14 years, overcoming more esteemed sides in the process and this should stand them in good stead on the continent. Lokomotiv have no reason to be overawed when they come up against Nice and the odds look to be worth a little flutter.

The draw is 12/5 and seems unlikely given the respective form of both clubs. Lokomotiv have momentum and will look to capitalise on an underperforming Nice backline, while the hosts seek a morale-boosting win to revive their flailing season.

Balotelli is 2/1 favourite to score first and put himself in the shop window. The former Inter and AC Milan striker is reportedly a summer target for a host of European clubs and his credentials will be boosted with a notable contribution against the Russians.

Versatile attacker Aleksei Miranchuk is 15/1 to notch the game’s final effort and the 22-year-old is good value for money. Miranchuk is enjoying his football and isn’t afraid to strike from distance.