Brighton & Hove Albion are hoping to restore some pride on Thursday night as they welcome Roma to the Amex Stadium in the second leg of their Europa League last 16 tie, a game that follows a sobering defeat in the Italian capital.
Date: 14/03/2024
Kick-off time: 20:00
Location: Amex Stadium
Under the tutelage of Roberto De Zerbi, Brighton & Hove Albion embarked on the 2023-24 campaign with a sense of optimism and ambition after an excellent campaign last season. Positioned 8th in the Premier League with 42 points, the Seagulls have showcased a brand of football that oscillates between brilliance and frustration. Despite not reaching the heights of the previous season, Brighton's journey has been commendable, particularly considering the adversity faced due to significant injuries plaguing key players. This resilience in the face of challenges underscores the squad's depth and De Zerbi's adeptness at maximising the squad at his disposal.
The first leg against Roma represented a stark reality check for Brighton, with the 4-0 defeat in Rome exposing vulnerabilities that the team has occasionally managed to mask over the course of the season. The result was a departure from the standard Brighton have set under De Zerbi, raising questions about their ability to rebound in European competition. However, Brighton's squad, featuring talents like Simon Adingra and Pascal Groß, holds the potential to upset expectations.
Despite the slim prospects of overturning the first-leg deficit, Brighton's campaign in the Europa League has been a narrative of ambition and growth. Their participation alone represents a significant achievement, with the club aiming to make a mark on the European stage, embodying the spirit of competition and the desire to excel against the continent's established clubs.
AS Roma's season has been one of transformation and rebirth. Currently sitting 5th in Serie A with 48 points, the Giallorossi's campaign has been revitalised following the appointment of Daniele De Rossi. The legendary former player's return to the club in a managerial capacity has rekindled a sense of optimism and attacking flair that had been conspicuously absent under José Mourinho. De Rossi's influence has been profound, instilling a brand of football that is not only effective but also highly entertaining to watch.
The revival of Roma under De Rossi has been emblematic of a club rediscovering its identity. Players like Romelu Lukaku and Paulo Dybala have been instrumental in this resurgence, finding form and contributing significantly to Roma's aspirations in both domestic and European competitions. The first-leg victory against Brighton highlighted Roma's potency and tactical coherence, setting the stage for a campaign that could potentially end in silverware.
Roma's history in European competitions is storied, with the club having tasted success and endured heartbreak in equal measure. The prospect of winning the Europa League represents not just an opportunity to claim a coveted trophy but also to assert a renewed status in European football. Despite challenges in away fixtures, particularly in England, Roma's current form and strategic approach under De Rossi suggest a team capable of overcoming historical hurdles.
The second leg at Brighton's home ground presents both teams with distinct challenges and opportunities. For Brighton, the match is an opportunity to salvage pride and demonstrate their capability to compete at the highest level, despite the adversities faced this season.
For Roma, the fixture is a chance to consolidate their first-leg advantage and progress in a competition that offers a tangible reward for their season's efforts. The strategic battle between De Zerbi and De Rossi should make this one a hugely interesting encounter, even if the first leg result removed most of the tie's competitiveness.
Premier League 
Serie A 
