The Daily Star Ireland
Tottenham has been highly focused on the Europa League this season and currently sits 7th in the group standings with 9 points. The London side began the competition strongly, securing victories in their first three matches: 3-0 against Qarabag, 1-2 over Ferencvaros, and 1-0 against Alkmaar.
However, they faced a setback in their most recent match, losing 3-2 to Galatasaray. In the Premier League, Tottenham is aiming to break into the top 4, but they have been inconsistent so far, currently in 10th place. Before the international break, they recorded 2 home wins and 3 away losses, and they are set to face Manchester City in their upcoming match.
On the other hand, Roma is struggling both in the Europa League and domestically. They are currently ranked 20th in their group, with just one win, a 1-0 victory over bottom-of-the-table Dynamo Kyiv. They have drawn 1-1 with both Union Saint-Gilloise and Bilbao and lost 1-0 to Elfsborg. Roma has also been having difficulties in Serie A, experiencing two managerial changes. They lost four of their last five matches before the international break, and recently appointed Claudio Ranieri as their new coach. Roma will travel to Naples for their next league match.
For Tottenham, key players such as defender Van de Ven, winger Odobert, and substitute striker Richarlison will be unavailable due to injury. Additionally, young talent Lankshear, who scored in the last match, is suspended. Forwards Johnson and Solanke, who both have 2 goals in the Europa League, are available, as is midfielder Sarr. Captain Son and winger Werner are also in contention for a starting spot.
Roma will be without defender Hermoso, winger Saelemaekers, and substitute striker Shomurodov, all due to injury. Ukrainian international Dovbyk, who played as a substitute in the last Europa League match, may start this time, along with star player Dybala. In midfield, French international Manu Koné will likely feature after impressing during the break. Ranieri is also hopeful that captain Pellegrini, who has struggled this season, will regain his form.
Prediction
Tottenham has been in excellent form at home in the Europa League, collecting 19 points from a possible 21. Roma, however, has struggled in away games, with 4 losses from 7 matches, which has hurt their chances in this competitive group.
Prediction: Tottenham 2 – 1 AS Roma.
