In what promises to be a captivating showdown, AS Roma are set to face off against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Europa League on Tuesday, with both teams eager to secure a spot in the next round of the competition. As two formidable sides with attractive playing styles prepare to square off, we expect to see an entertaining encounter between two sides boasting talented squads.
Date: 07/03/2024
Kick-off time: 17:45
Location: Stadio Olimpico
For AS Roma, the Europa League represents an opportunity to showcase their resurgence under the guidance of manager Daniele De Rossi. After enduring a tumultuous season that saw the departure of José Mourinho following a long run of flat performances, De Rossi has revitalised the team, instilling a renewed sense of belief and passion among the players.
Since De Rossi's appointment, Roma have witnessed a remarkable improvement in their performances, playing an attractive brand of attacking football that has delighted fans and pundits alike. the resurgence of star man Paulo Dybala, who is looking like the world-class attacker Roma thought they signed at the start of last season, is emblematic of Roma's revival under De Rossi. Midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini is also in scintillating form and is seeing a resurgence in De Rossi's side, who as a collective are accumulating an impressive number of goals.
Roma's journey to the last 16 of the Europa League has been filled with drama and excitement, culminating in a tense penalty shootout victory over Feyenoord in the playoff round following a 1-1 draw in both legs. Despite their recent success in European competitions, having reached a final in each of the last two seasons, Roma face a daunting challenge against English opposition, having failed to win any of their last fourteen encounters against English teams in European competition.
However, with their newfound confidence and determination, Roma are eager to rectify their record against English sides and progress further in the Europa League. With the backing of a packed-out, loud Stadio Olimpico crowd on top of the guidance of De Rossi, Roma are poised to deliver a performance worthy of their illustrious history.
On the opposing side, Brighton & Hove Albion enter the clash with AS Roma as underdogs but with a sense of optimism and ambition. Despite enduring a decline in form compared to their impressive campaign last season, Brighton remain a formidable opponent, boasting an impressive set of players and an effective style of possession-based football under manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Brighton's journey to the Europa League has been a historic one, marking their first-ever participation in European competition. Topping their group in the group stage, which included illustrious clubs like Marseille, Ajax, and AEK Athens, Brighton showcased their resilience and quality on the continental stage.
However, injuries have hampered Brighton's progress this season, with key players such as João Pedro, Kaoru Mitoma and Solly March all missing significant time this season, leaving gaps in the squad. Despite the setbacks, midfielders Pascal Groß and Billy Gilmour, along with winger Simon Adringa, have stepped up to the challenge, demonstrating the depth of their squad.
As they prepare to face AS Roma, Brighton understand the magnitude of the occasion and the opportunity that lies ahead. With their patient, possession-based style of play and a squad brimming with potential, Brighton are determined to make a mark in their debut European campaign and upset the odds against a top-class opponent.