ROMA SECURES PLACE IN EUROPA LEAGUE ROUND OF 16 WITH THRILLING 3-2 VICTORY AGAINST PORTO
Roma triumphed over Porto with a 3-2 win at the Stadio Olimpico, advancing to the knockout stage of the Europa League, led by star player Paulo Dybala, who scored two goals.
The match unfolded on February 23, 2025, with Roma needing to secure victory after their previous encounter had ended 1-1. Under the watchful eye of coach Claudio Ranieri, the giallorossi embraced the challenge, knowing the stakes were high.
The game kicked off at the iconic Olimpico stadium, full with fans buzzing with excitement. Early on, Roma struggled to find their rhythm, but Porto struck first. Samu pounced on defensive errors, capitalizing on goalkeeper Svilar’s miscue to score with an impressive acrobatic effort, putting Porto up 1-0 by the 27th minute.
Yet, the Brazilian's goal was merely the spark Roma needed. Less than ten minutes later, Dybala began his show. He equalized at the 35th minute after wrapping up a well-worked infraction with Shomurodov, utilizing his trademark finesse to find the back of the net.
Just four minutes later, Dybala struck again. This time, the Argentine wizard found space within the area before unleashing a powerful shot, beating goalkeeper Diogo Costa at his near post to make it 2-1 for Roma. Dybala's dazzling display turned the tide and his determination was palpable.
Despite their recent setback, Porto tried to regroup and respond. They almost found parity again before halftime, but Roma managed to hold onto their lead as they took control of the game.
The second half introduced moments of tension, particularly after Eustaquio's reaction to being challenged by Paredes. After reviewing the play, referee François Letexier decided to send the Porto midfielder off, giving Roma even more room to maneuver with the man advantage.
Roma attempted to take full advantage of their numerical edge, but some missed chances, including Shomurodov's failed tap-in, made fans breathe nervously. The atmosphere remained charged as the home side pursued another goal.
At the 83rd minute, Roma did find their third. Dybala once again orchestrated the play, providing the assist for Pisilli, who elegantly slid to score, capitalizing on Angelino's pinpoint cross. The goal ensured Roma had what seemed to be comfortable breathing room with the score standing at 3-1.
But drama always seems to follow such matches, and Porto was not finished yet. Deep during stoppage time, on the 90th and 6th minute, Borges's cross found Rensch, who unfortunately turned the ball past his own goalkeeper, reducing the deficit to 3-2.
At full time, the score read Roma 3, Porto 2. The giallorossi advanced to the next stage, eagerly anticipating the draw for potential rivals, with fears of facing their local rivals Lazio heavy on their minds.
This match encapsulated the essence of knockout football—intense, unpredictable, and filled with moments of brilliance and heartbreak. Dybala’s dazzling performances put him firmly at the forefront of supporters’ hearts as Roma prepared to move forward in this season’s Europa League campaign.