In 1966, OGC Nice embarked on a European adventure that would leave a lasting impression. Under the legendary coach Louis Favre, the club qualified for the European Cup after finishing in second place in Ligue 1 the previous season. This qualification was an achievement in itself, but it was just the beginning of a remarkable journey.

The first round of the competition saw Nice face FC Barcelona, a European giant at the time. The Aiglons, fueled by players like the talented forward Roger Piantoni and captain Émile Veinante, managed to hold their own against the Catalans. In the first leg at Camp Nou, Nice secured a stunning 1-1 draw, a result that surprised many experts.

The return match at the Ray stadium, filled with incredible fervor, saw the Aiglons achieve an even greater feat. Thanks to a decisive goal from Piantoni, Nice won 2-0, eliminating the legendary FC Barcelona and etching their name in the club's history. This moment not only galvanized the supporters but also established Nice as an emerging force on the European stage.

Nice's journey didn’t stop there. In the quarter-finals, the club was drawn against Dinamo Kiev, another formidable team. Despite losing the first leg, the Aiglons showed remarkable courage and determination in the return match. Although Nice did not advance to the semi-finals, the imprint left by this campaign in the hearts of supporters and in the club's history is invaluable.

This 1966 European adventure had a lasting impact on OGC Nice's identity. It not only sparked pride among the fans but also highlighted the club's potential on the international stage. Since then, every European campaign is eagerly anticipated by fans, who nostalgically remember that 60s epic when the Aiglons left their mark in the starry sky of European football.