AS Roma - Lille OSC
When: 18:45
Where: UEFA Europa League Group Stage
AS Roma
The club coached by Gian Piero Gasperini is in excellent form. Since the appointment of the new coach, the team has won five out of six matches, conceding only two goals. In the Europa League, the Romans started with an away win against Nice, with goals scored by defenders Gianluca Mancini and Evan N'Dicka. In Serie A, Roma is also competing with top clubs such as Milan and Napoli. Additionally, the Olimpico Stadium is a stronghold, boasting a 75% win rate in Europa League home matches.
Lille OSC
Bruno Génésio's team also started the European campaign successfully, with a 2-1 win against Brann, where Hamza Ikalléne and veteran Olivier Giroud stood out as goal scorers. In Ligue 1, the northern Frenchmen are in the top group, having scored 15 goals in seven matches, which indicates a strong offense. Nevertheless, the defeat against Lyon revealed defensive weaknesses. Injuries and the absence of the first-choice goalkeeper complicate the situation, forcing reliance on young and substitute players.
Injuries
Roma will be without Paulo Dybala and Leon Bailey; however, Dybala might return by the weekend, while Bailey only after the international break. Tommaso Baldanzi is not registered for the Europa League, which is why Matthias Süle will play on the right wing. Lille suffers more significant absences: Benjamin André, Thomas Meunier, Romain Perraud, Alexis Saelemaekers, and goalkeeper Berke Özer are unavailable. Coach Génésio must rely on substitutes and younger players.
Head-to-Head
The direct duel history is limited, which lends special tension to the encounter. Roma maintains their flawless home record against French clubs in the Europa League, while Lille made headlines last season with victories over Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. Statistically and due to home advantage, Roma benefits from better conditions.
Match Prediction
AS Roma's form and defense suggest a home victory, although Lille's committed team will especially try offensively in the second half. Lille's numerous absences and Roma's defensive strength, particularly at their home Olimpico Stadium, make it difficult for the French team to score. Given Roma's stable performance and home advantage, a narrow home win with few goals is likely.
My Tip: AS Roma Win (1.73)
Tip