Roma and Lazio will not face each other in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Europa League, following the draw held on Friday, which has set the stage for two exciting matchups for the Rome-based clubs. Lazio has been paired with Czech side Viktoria Plzen, avoiding the highly anticipated derby with their city rivals, AS Roma, who will take on Athletic Club, the runners-up of the group stage.
Both teams managed to keep it together, steering clear of possible internal conflict on the pitch and ensuring there will be no crosstown clash at this phase of Europa League. Lazio, after topping their group, defined their fate with their upcoming matches, considering their impressive performance throughout the group stage, where they defeated notable squads like Porto, Ajax, and Real Sociedad.
Meanwhile, Roma has experienced its fair share of challenges, but they secured their place after overcoming Porto with a thrilling 3-2 triumph last Thursday, edging through 4-3 on aggregate score. The Giallorossi, led by coach Claudio Ranieri, are aware of the hurdles posed by Athletic Club, who are regarded as one of the favorites to win the competition.
Angelo Fabiani, Lazio’s director, expressed indifference over avoiding the derby, stating, “All teams are important. Viktoria Plzen are well organized,” as he acknowledged the challenge his squad faces. The Biancocelesti will travel to Czech Republic for the first leg of their tie on March 6, with the second match played at home on March 13, at the iconic Stadio Olimpico.
President of Lazio revealed their strategy moving forward, emphasizing on the necessity for changes within the team from earlier seasons and on the positive path they are currently following. With absence of key players such as Ciro Immobile and Danilo Cataldi, they have shown flexibility and adaptability under new coaching strategies.
On the other end of the spectrum, Roma's potential reunion with former coach José Mourinho is looming should they clear the way through their initial playoffs against Athletic Club, leading them toward facing Fenerbahce or Rangers. Roma fans are excited about the prospect of watching their team strive to challenge the upper echelons of the competition.
The draw's result has ignited excitement as both teams look to advance through the knockout stage. Roma and Lazio are positioned differently on the bracket, indicating they won't cross paths again until potentially reaching the finals, providing each squad with the opportunity to showcase their abilities without the typical pressures of the derby.
Despite the avoided drama of the derby, the stakes remain high as both clubs are tasked with delivering consistent performances against competent rivals. Lazio’s recent performance reflects their determination to maintain their lead, and they will need to bring their best against Viktoria Plzen, known for their tactically sound play.
The anticipation for these matches cannot be understated, with both sides carrying the hopes of their passionate fanbases as they aim for European glory. All eyes will be on these matches, as both teams stand firm to assert their dominance and progress toward the coveted European final.
Both Roma and Lazio's paths are set, and now it is up to their players to perform, deliver performances worthy of their storied clubs, and advance through the knockout stages of the Europa League. Fans will watch eagerly as the competition heats up, with the final hopes resting on the outcome of these matches.