Athletic Club vs Roma Prediction - Europa League
Athletic Club prepares to host Roma at San Mames in what promises to be an intense Europa League Round of 16 clash. Roma, who are unbeaten in Serie A in 2025, come into this match with a slight edge after their 2-1 victory in the first leg.
With the weather forecast predicting overcast clouds and a chilly 6°C, conditions may be challenging. Athletic Club has shown a formidable attacking presence, highlighted by a recent 7-1 thrashing of Real Valladolid. However, the absence of suspended Yeray Álvarez and injured key players could be a disadvantage.
Roma, managed by Claudio Ranieri, have maintained better form, winning their last five games. Despite Paulo Dybala’s doubtful status, expect an exciting encounter, particularly in the second half. Our prediction leans towards both teams finding the back of the net, with a likely home win given Athletic Club’s resilience and form at San Mames. Betting on both teams to score in the second half can also be considered.
Athletic Club vs Roma Prediction & Betting Tip
Given the match facts and recent performances, our recommended betting tip is “Both Teams to Score in the Second Half.” This prediction is based on both teams’ attacking capabilities and the likelihood of a high-intensity second half.
| Athletic Club vs. Roma Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Both Teams to Score in the Second Half | 2.00 (average) |
- Athletic Club boasts a better attacking lineup, evidenced by their average of 2.00 goals per game in their last five matches.
- Roma has similarly potent attacking options, averaging 2.40 goals per game in their last five encounters.
- Both teams have a lot at stake in this Europa League tie, promising an exhilarating second half as they push for progression.
Athletic Club vs Roma Odds
Taking a closer look at the odds for the matchup between Athletic Club and Roma, it’s clear that the bookmakers favor the home team. This is expected given Athletic Club’s better track record at San Mames, despite recent mixed results.
| Athletic Club vs. Roma Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Athletic Club | 1.91 |
| Draw | 3.50 |
| Roma | 3.97 |
Athletic Club is the bookmakers’ favorite with odds of 1.91, reflecting their home advantage. Roma, on the other hand, is considered an underdog with odds of 3.97 despite their impressive unbeaten streak. A draw is priced at 3.50, indicating a competitive match.
Athletic Club Team Analysis
Athletic Club’s recent form has been a mixed bag. Here’s a look at their last five matches:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Athletic Club | Mallorca | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Roma | Athletic Club | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Atletico Madrid | Athletic Club | 1-0 (Loss) |
| Athletic Club | Real Valladolid | 7-1 (Win) |
| Espanyol | Athletic Club | 1-1 (Draw) |
Athletic Club has averaged 2 goals per game but has struggled to keep clean sheets, with none in their last five matches. Their attack has been fairly consistent, showcased by a seven-goal performance against Real Valladolid. However, defensive lapses have cost them crucial points.
Keep an eye on their ability to score but also their vulnerability at the back as they take on Roma.
Athletic Club Key Players
Key players for Athletic Club in this crucial Europa League tie against Roma will notably be led by top scorer Iñaki Williams, who has been in fine form. His speed and agility will be essential, especially on the flanks alongside his brother, Nico Williams, who will also be pivotal in creating scoring opportunities. Defensive stability might be a concern, but keep an eye on Unai Simón in goal, who will need to put in a solid performance with Álvarez suspended.
Expected lineup for Athletic Club:
- Goalkeeper: Julen Agirrezabala
- Defenders: Óscar de Marcos, Iñigo Lekue, Aitor Paredes, Yuri Berchiche
- Midfielders: Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Mikel Jauregizar, Unai Gómez
- Attackers: Iñaki Williams, Nico Williams, Maroan Sannadi
A potential key battle will be Iñaki Williams against Roma’s experienced center-back, Mats Hummels.
Athletic Club Suspensions & Injuries
Athletic Club will face some challenges in this Europa League tie against Roma due to key absences. Yeray Álvarez is suspended due to a red card, and his absence in defense will be felt. Additionally, the team is dealing with injuries to Álvaro Djaló and Daniel Vivian, both expected to return in late March, impacting team depth.
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Yeray Álvarez | Red card | Next match |
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Álvaro Djaló | Ankle injury | Late March 2025 |
| Daniel Vivian | Thigh injury | Late March 2025 |
These absences might force Ernesto Valverde to adapt his tactics and rely on less experienced players in their backline, potentially increasing their vulnerability against Roma’s in-form attackers.
Athletic Club Tactics and Formation
Athletic Club Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Maroan Sannadi
- Midfield Trio: Mikel Jauregizar, Unai Gómez, Iñaki Williams
- Defensive Setup: Iñigo Lekue and Aitor Paredes at the heart of the defence
Ernesto Valverde’s side will look to leverage their high-energy pressing and quick transitions. With Iñaki Williams’ pace on the wing and Unai Gómez playing as an attacking midfielder, expect dynamic attacks. The absence of Yeray Álvarez will mean extra reliance on Paredes and Lekue to hold the defensive line. Their ability to maintain structure and utilize the flanks for quick counters will be key against a defensive Roma side.
Roma Team Analysis
Roma has been in exceptional form, boasting a perfect record in their last five matches.
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Empoli | Roma | 0-1 (Win) |
| Roma | Athletic Club | 2-1 (Win) |
| Roma | Como | 2-1 (Win) |
| Roma | Monza | 4-0 (Win) |
| Roma | FC Porto | 3-2 (Win) |
Their recent 5-game winning streak showcases their dominance, including notable wins against Porto and Athletic Club.
Roma has averaged 2.40 goals per game and kept 2 clean sheets during this period. With Claudio Ranieri at the helm, the Giallorossi have been solid both offensively and defensively, making them a formidable opponent.
Roma Key Players
Roma’s lineup features key players who have been instrumental in their recent success. Expected lineup for Roma:
- Goalkeeper: Mile Svilar
- Defenders: Mats Hummels, Gianluca Mancini, Evan N’Dicka
- Midfielders: Devyne Rensch, Leandro Paredes, Bryan Cristante, Angeliño
- Attackers: Stephan El Shaarawy, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Artem Dovbyk
Paulo Dybala, their top scorer with 2 goals in the competition, is a potential doubt but could play a crucial role if fit.
Key individual battles include:
- Artem Dovbyk vs. Athletic Club’s defense
- Stephan El Shaarawy’s creativity against Athletic Club’s full-backs
With such talent, Roma poses a significant challenge for Athletic Club.
Roma Suspensions & Injuries
Roma heads into this clash with a couple of injury concerns and a clean slate in terms of suspensions.
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Paulo Dybala | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
| Zeki Çelik | Muscle injury | Late March 2025 |
Roma will notably miss Paulo Dybala if he’s not fit to play, as he’s their top scorer in the competition with 2 goals. The absence of Zeki Çelik also limits their defensive options.
Despite these setbacks, Claudio Ranieri’s side has depth in both attack and defense, and they will rely on other key players to step up. The absence of Dybala, however, might affect their creativity and goal-scoring prowess.
Roma Tactics and Formation
Roma’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Artem Dovbyk
- Midfield Duo: Leandro Paredes and Bryan Cristante
- Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
- Notable Strategy: Reliance on wingbacks for width and creativity
Claudio Ranieri’s side sets up with three at the back, anchored by experienced defenders like Mats Hummels and Evan N’Dicka. This allows the wingbacks, Devyne Rensch and Angeliño, to push forward and provide width.
In the midfield, Paredes and Cristante form a solid central partnership, looking to control possession and distribute the ball effectively. Lorenzo Pellegrini and Stephan El Shaarawy offer attacking prowess just behind the lone striker, Dovbyk.
Expect Roma to capitalize on Athletic Club’s defensive gaps, exploiting the wings to create scoring opportunities.
