One does not have to venture too far back in the history books to find records of SC’s two previous competitive fixtures on French soil. Freiburg faced Nantes in the west of the country in October 2022, registering a resounding 4-0 victory. Over a year later they returned, this time heading to the north to take on Lens. A goalless draw meant everything was then still to play for during the second leg in Freiburg, which saw the hosts clinch their spot in the competition’s round of 16 with a dramatic 3-2 win.

The third French adventure for SC will take place on Thursday in the far south on the Côte d’Azur. There, they will go head-to-head with OGC Nice, four-time champions of France’s top flight during the 1950s (renamed Ligue 1 in 2002). Over the course of the past 10 years, the club has qualified for the Europa League on five occasions.

Julian Schuster provided his analysis of the upcoming opponent: “They defend with great discipline as a unit. It is difficult to create chances against them. At the same time, they are very effective in transition, and we will need to adapt to that. They have faced very stiff competition until now and may have deserved one or two points more.”

The Freiburg coaching staff will be pleased with their side’s display so far, with seven points picked up across the first three league phase fixtures. They will hope to add to that tally next time out. The team’s travel to Nice was delayed by a good two hours; however, Schuster does not see that having an effect on the game. “A certain degree of acceptance was necessary regarding our journey today. The question is how you deal with moments like these. While we were waiting, we had a coffee together and interacted with the fans, so we’re viewing it as a positive experience. The delay won’t have any repercussions for tomorrow.”

While Eren Dinkci remains side-lined with a knock, Patrick Osterhage does make up part of the travelling cohort. “His injury is not a structural one, so he has not fallen too far behind. He is nearly back to full fitness and therefore very much in our plans,” revealed Schuster on where his midfielder is currently at.

1,500 SC fans will offer their support on Thursday evening in France’s fifth-largest city.

Photo: SC Freiburg