Stadio Olimpico is set to host an exciting Europa League match on Thursday between AS Roma and Bayer Leverkusen. Leverkusen, driven by a desire for redemption after being knocked out by Roma in last season’s semifinals, looks to make a strong push in the competition under the guidance of Xabi Alonso. Having already secured the Bundesliga title, Leverkusen’s focus is now fully on the Europa League. The team welcomes the return of key midfielder Granit Xhaka from a domestic suspension.
Roma, having advanced past AC Milan in a closely contested Serie A double-header, are prepared to face Leverkusen. With Daniele De Rossi at the helm, Roma is expected to take a more conservative approach in this first leg, suggesting a potential low-scoring game. Roma will be without Zeki Celik due to suspension, but welcomes back Diego Llorente and Leandro Paredes from Serie A suspensions.
The game is predicted to end in a 1-1 draw, indicating a tight match with few goals.