As Matchday 1 of the UEFA Europa League progresses, we take a look at one of the standout games of the round as Roma takes on Athletic Club. AS Roma recently parted ways with Daniele De Rossi, and they finally secured their first win of the season over the weekend, emerging as 3-0 winners against Udinese. Ivan Juric, the new Roma coach, will be looking to build on that victory. The Croatian has instilled more discipline in the team and halted their decline. However, he is missing a few key players, including Alexis Saelemaekers and Enzo Le Fée, ahead of his first European fixture of the season.
Roma will be motivated to perform well at home as they welcome the Spanish side. More than anything, they need to find the consistency that has been missing since José Mourinho’s departure.
Key Players to Watch
Roma
The obvious candidates for Roma are Lorenzo Pellegrini in midfield and Argentine attacker Paulo Dybala, both of whom pose a significant threat to their opponents. However, Athletic Club should also be wary of the talented attacking midfielder Tommaso Baldanzi, who was electric in their previous game and scored one of the goals.
Athletic Bilbao
With Nico Williams injured, the responsibility will fall on his older brother, Iñaki Williams, to lead the attack for Bilbao. Additionally, Ander Herrera could be called upon to provide midfield protection and much-needed experience.
Match Preview
AS Roma have only scored more than 1 goal in 1 of their 5 games this season.
Athletic Bilbao have scored in 4 of their 5 games this season.
AS Roma only lost once at home in the Europa League last season, in the first leg of the semifinal against eventual runners-up Bayer Leverkusen.
A quick look at recent results might suggest that this match leans in favor of Athletic Bilbao, but they are playing away from home against a tough European side in AS Roma. Bilbao’s youth and inexperience could work against them, while Roma have struggled in front of goal. However, Valverde’s experience at this level of competition is valuable. Athletic Bilbao could narrowly edge past Roma in a tightly contested match.
A Tale of Two Brothers
The Europa League clash has another intriguing storyline, as Inaki Williams revealed that his brother Nico Williams is happy with his decision to stay at Athletic Bilbao, despite reported interest from other clubs. He is optimistic about their future together. The Williams brothers are both key players for their club and country, with Iñaki being a stalwart in the attack for years. While Nico Williams is not expected to play in this match due to injury, he will be an important player for Athletic Bilbao moving forward.
The Home Advantage
The match will be played at the Stadio Olimpico, a venue known for its passionate atmosphere. It is a stadium that can intimidate opponents, and Roma will be hoping to use the home advantage to their benefit. This will be their first home game in the Europa League this season, and they will be looking to make a strong statement. Roma fans have a reputation for being some of the most dedicated and passionate in all of Italy. Their support for the team is unyielding, and they are known for creating a truly electric atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico. This is a key factor that will be crucial for Roma’s chances of success in the Europa League.
The Match
Roma are looking to start their Europa League campaign with a victory. Athletic Bilbao, however, are looking to build on their strong start to the season and prove their credentials in European competition. The match will be a clash of styles, with Roma’s more experienced players going up against Bilbao’s youthful exuberance.
Fans of European football will be looking forward to this match, which promises to be a tightly contested affair. With both teams having something to prove, the outcome is sure to be intriguing. Be sure to tune in on Thursday night to see how the match unfolds.
