AS Roma is gearing up for what could be a pivotal match as they face Athletic Club at the historic San Mames Barria on Thursday, March 13, 2025, during the second leg of their UEFA Europa League round of 16 tie. The match, which kicks off at 5:45 PM GMT, marks the return of several key players to the squad after notable absences, providing the Giallorossi with both hope and confidence.
Having emerged victorious with a 2-1 win from the first leg at the Stadio Olimpico, Roma heads to Spain with not only momentum but also the knowledge they need just to avoid defeat to secure a place in the quarter-finals. Coach Claudio Ranieri has expressed firm resolve, insisting on the need for his team to approach the match "without fear" against Athletic Club, whom he cautioned will push much harder at home, motivated by their enthusiastic supporters.
Ranieri's confidence isn't without foundation. His side has lost only two of their last 16 matches across all competitions this year. He stated, "We must play our game against a strong, compact, and tough team. We will play our match the way we know how. We are aware of our strengths and weaknesses." His strategy includes maximizing their attacking prowess, emphasizing the team will "attack with 11 players and defend with 11."
On the pitch, Roma's changes are notable. Gianluca Mancini is back from suspension, ready to bolster the back three alongside Mats Hummels and Evan Ndicka. This defensive solidity will be key against Athletic Club, who are known for their direct approach toward goal. Ranieri commented on the Basque side's playing style, saying, "They play directly toward the goal, which I like. They will put pressure on us, driven by their fans, but we must play our game without thinking about the result because we are building a team and shaping a mentality."
Meanwhile, the absence of Eldor Shomurodov from the lineup is telling. Despite his impressive form, boasting two goals and two assists over his last five appearances, the young striker's place has been taken by Artem Dovbyk, who will partner star players Paulo Dybala and Tommaso Baldanzi upfront.
For Athletic Club, the stakes are high as they seek to overcome the deficit from the first leg. The pressure will undoubtedly intensify at San Mames, where the home crowd is known for creating a heated atmosphere. Ranieri expressed hope for the ambiance, saying, "I hope tomorrow there will be a heated atmosphere, but without clashes between fans because a football match should remain just a football match." The coach understands the psychological advantage this environment can bestow on his team’s performance.
Selecting the right strategy and utilizing key players will be pivotal for both sides. Athletic Club will miss defender Yeray Alvarez due to suspension and Dani Vivian is sidelined with injury, leaving them with gaps to fill against Roma's adept counterattack. Brothers Iñaki and Nico Williams are expected to be on the frontlines, ready to lock horns with Roma's resolute defense.
This Europa League encounter is not just about tactical supremacy; it holds substantial weight for both teams' ambitions this season. Athletic Club has shown strong form at home, having won eight of their last ten international fixtures against Serie A clubs. On the flip side, Roma's record is less flattering with only two victories from their last twelve away games across Spain, which surely adds to Ranieri’s urgency to change this narrative.
If Roma can seal this match with at least a draw, it will be significant for the team's morale and could set the course for what lies ahead as they look to make their mark on the Europa League stage once again. Ranieri concluded with hopefulness, insisting, "I believe we need to play our game without fear and play as we know how." This mantra will surely resonate as the Giallorossi step largely onto the pitch, aiming to maintain their winning momentum and push for glory at this level.
Now, all eyes are on the tremendous showdown set for tonight as both teams vouch to showcase exceptional football, and for fans, it's primed to be a thrilling spectacle.