The Daily Star Ireland
Securing a direct qualification for the round of 16 seems challenging for AS Roma, currently 21st in the league phase. Their position is precarious, with only a one-point lead over the 25th place, the first spot that faces elimination. The Giallorossi have managed draws against Union Saint-Gilloise (1-1 at home) and Tottenham (2-2 away) but have struggled since November. Before their recent match against Lecce, they had endured four consecutive league defeats, placing them 15th in Serie A.
Braga, on the other hand, stands 18th in the league phase with two victories, one draw, and two losses in the Europa League. The 2010-2011 finalists recently triumphed over Hoffenheim with a 3-0 victory, following a 1-1 draw against Elfsborg. Domestically, Braga trails behind Portuguese giants Sporting, Porto, and Benfica, currently sitting in 5th place behind the unexpected contender Santa Clara. They secured their fourth consecutive win across all competitions with a victory over Estoril on Friday.
Roma has seen the return of backup forward Shomurodov from the last Europa League match and hopes to see experienced defender Hermoso back, who has been out since October 27. Claudio Ranieri’s squad should be fully available, with the team earning a draw against Tottenham thanks to goals from defenders Ndicka and Hummels. Summer signing Dovbyk has netted twice in the league phase, while Dybala is present but not in his most decisive form. French international Koné is a regular starter in midfield.
For Braga, defender Oliveira and prolific midfielder Zalazar (six goals, including two in the league) might still be absent, as they were against Hoffenheim. The team relies heavily on Vitor Carvalho in midfield, with João Moutinho contributing less frequently. Former Nice player Bambu is not a regular starter in central defense. Ricardo Horta, a key figure, has yet to score in the Europa League, while Bruma leads as Braga’s top scorer in the competition with three goals.
Prediction
AS Roma’s recent Europa League performances have been disappointing, with nine defeats in their last ten matches, making a return to the competition likely. Braga, aiming for their first top-flight title, has won nine of their 15 away games in the league this season.
Prediction: AS Roma 0 : 3 Braga
