NEC's path to the main Champions League tournament
Why it matters
NEC is facing a crucial season, aiming to qualify for the group stage of the Champions League. The match against Olympiakos Piraeus represents a significant test for the Dutch team, which must demonstrate that it can compete at a high level. Getting through this qualifying round could not only raise the club's prestige, but also improve its prospects for the rest of the season.
Context
Nijmegen-based team NEC demonstrated mixed preparation during their summer friendlies, with significant wins and some defeats highlighting areas for improvement. Their performance against Olympiakos Piraeus will be crucial to their European journey and their ambition to compete at the highest level in European football.
Key points
- NEC's path to the main Champions League tournament.
- NEC is preparing to qualify for the main Champions League tournament, starting the journey with a match against Olympiakos Piraeus.
- It is from the NEC route to the Champions League.
The NEC's preparation for the new season is now behind us. The team played several friendlies, including a 1-1 draw with De Treffers and victories against teams such as MSV Duisburg (3-2) and Anderlecht (3-1). However, they also suffered defeats against SV Elversberg (0-1) and Sevilla (1-2), which highlighted some aspects to improve ahead of the official matches.
First step: third qualifying phase
NEC enters the third qualifying phase of the Champions League, unlike other Dutch teams such as FC Twente and Ajax, who begin their journey in the Europa League. In the July 20 draw, NEC were paired with Olympiakos Piraeus. The first leg will be played away on 4 August at 8pm, while the return match will take place on 11 August at 7.30pm in Nijmegen. It is important to know that, in case of defeat, NEC will directly enter the group stage of the Europa League.
Second step: play-off
If NEC were to overcome Olympiakos, they will face the play-off phase (fourth qualifying phase) which will take place on 18 or 19 August and 25 or 26 August against the winner between FK Bodø/Glimt and Union Sint-Gillis. Even in this case, the risk is of slipping into the Europa League in case of elimination.
Champions League group stage
Should NEC reach the group stage, the draw is scheduled for August 27. If successful, the team will be paired with eight different opponents, and the tournament will start on 8, 9 and 10 September 2026. This would represent a historic achievement for the club, which dreams of being noticed also on the European stage.
In summary, the NEC has a challenging journey ahead of them, but with the right preparation and determination, fans can look forward to an exciting adventure in this year's Champions League.
What happens now
Should NEC be successful against Olympiakos, they will advance to the play-off stage, where they will face the winner between FK Bodø/Glimt and Union Sint-Gillis. This step is fundamental to the dream of participating in the Champions League, an objective that could positively influence the season and the club's approach in domestic competitions. In case of defeat, NEC will still have the opportunity to access the group stage of the Europa League.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the score of the NEC match against Olympiakos Piraeus?
The first leg match between NEC and Olympiakos Piraeus will be played on August 4, but the score is not yet available.
What is the impact on the NEC standings after the match against Olympiakos Piraeus?
If NEC loses against Olympiakos Piraeus, they will directly enter the group stage of the Europa League.
When will the next NEC match be played?
NEC's next match will be on August 4 against Olympiakos Piraeus.
Which teams will NEC face if they beat Olympiakos Piraeus?
If NEC overcomes Olympiakos, they will face the winner between FK Bodø/Glimt and Union Sint-Gillis in the play-off stage.
What is NEC's path to qualifying for the Champions League?
NEC has to get through two qualifying rounds, starting with Olympiakos Piraeus in the third qualifying round.
