Although OGC Nice fell 2-1 to AS Roma at Allianz Riviera in the opening round of the 2025/26 Europa League, Nigerian forward Terem Moffi gave the home fans a moment of hope and showed why he remains a key figure for Nice.
The match was settled early in the second half when Roma struck twice in quick succession.
Defender Evan N’Dicka broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute with a header from a corner, and just three minutes later, Gianluca Mancini added a second with a stunning volley, giving Roma a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Nice, however, battled back. Their resurgence came in the 77th minute when Moffi stepped up to score from the penalty spot.
The spot kick was awarded after Roma substitute Niccolò Pisilli was judged to have brought down Antoine Mendy inside the box.
Moffi’s cool, composed finish, his left foot skipping the ground before striking, restored hope for the hosts.
Throughout his time on the pitch, Moffi was a live threat. Though Nice struggled to create many clear chances against Roma’s solid defensive set-up, his penalty conversion under pressure proved his poise.
He also tried to unsettle Roma’s backline with his movement and work off the ball.
Despite the goal, Nice couldn’t force a second equaliser. Roma held on, defending stoutly in the closing stages, to claim all three points away from home.
