Europa League | Roma v Braga: Match Preview

As the Europa League group stage draws to a close,  Roma are set to host Braga at the Stadio Olimpico in a match that could prove pivotal for both teams’ aspirations to advance. With only three games remaining, both clubs are clinging to hopes of securing a playoff spot, making this encounter a must-win for both sides.

Roma enter this match with a mixed bag of results in recent weeks. The Giallorossi have struggled to find consistency in Serie A, culminating in a disappointing run that saw them lose six out of seven league matches. However, they managed to break this streak with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Lecce last weekend, providing a much-needed boost ahead of their European fixture. In their last Europa League outing, Roma fought back twice to secure a 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, showcasing resilience and determination under the guidance of new manager Claudio Ranieri.

On the other hand, Braga have also faced challenges in their domestic league but managed to climb the standings with a crucial win against Hoffenheim last month. This victory lifted them to 18th place in the group with seven points, keeping their hopes alive for a top-eight finish that would ensure automatic qualification for the knockout stages. Despite recent setbacks, including a disappointing draw against Estoril after leading 2-0, Braga remains a formidable opponent with several players capable of making an impact.

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Historically, Roma hold the upper hand over Braga, having won both previous encounters in the Europa League. In their last meetings during the 2020-21 season, Roma secured a 2-0 victory away and followed it up with a 3-1 win at home. However, past performances will have little bearing on this match as both teams are eager to secure valuable points.

Roma will likely adopt an aggressive approach at home, leveraging their strong record at the Stadio Olimpico where they have won eight of their last ten European matches. Their ability to control possession and create chances will be crucial against Braga’s counter-attacking style.

Braga, meanwhile, will need to be resilient defensively while looking to exploit any gaps left by Roma’s attacking intent. The Portuguese side has shown they can score goals but must also tighten up at the back to avoid conceding early.

Team News

Roma’s injury situation has improved slightly, but they are still missing key players. Forward Paulo Dybala and defender Mats Hummels may be rested as Ranieri looks to manage his squad effectively. The absence of Bryan Cristante and Zeki Celik due to injuries leaves Roma with limited options in midfield and defense. The potential return of Artem Dovbyk is uncertain; if he is unavailable, Ranieri may opt for either a false nine formation or utilize Eldor Shomurodov as the focal point in attack.

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Braga’s head coach Carlos Carvalhal has struggled to settle on a consistent starting line-up this season due to injuries and fluctuating form. Key players such as Paulo Oliveira and Rodrigo Zalazar are side-lined, which could impact their defensive stability. Nevertheless, the attacking trio of Ricardo Horta, Bruma, and Amine El Ouazzani remains potent, with Bruma being particularly influential in recent European matches.

Expected Starting XIs

Roma: Svilar; Mancini, Hermoso, Ndicka; Abdulhmaid, Le Fee, Paredes, Zalewski; Pellegrini, Pisilli; Shomurodov

Braga: Matheus; Ferreira, Niakate, Arrey-Mbi; Fernandes, Carvalho, Moutinho, Gomez; Horta, Bruma; Ouazzani

Match Prediction

With home advantage playing a significant role and Roma showing signs of resurgence after their recent victory, they are favoured to edge out Braga in what promises to be an intense contest. Expect a closely contested match with Roma potentially clinching a narrow victory.

Prediction: Roma 2-1 Braga

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