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As the 2024 European League kicks off, one of the standout fixtures of the opening week is the clash between AS Roma and Athletic Bilbao. Both clubs are known for their passionate fanbases, tactical discipline, and competitive European pedigrees. Here’s a deep dive into the match’s history, player form, betting odds, and statistics to guide your wagers.
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Match Overview
- Date: Thursday, September 26th, 2024
- Kickoff: 21:00 CEST
- Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome
Team Form and Recent Performance
AS Roma, under manager José Mourinho, have been a force in European competitions in recent years, reaching the finals of both the UEFA Europa Conference League and UEFA Europa League during Mourinho’s tenure. They head into this match on the back of a strong start in Serie A,.
Athletic Bilbao, managed by Ernesto Valverde, are known for their unique policy of only fielding Basque players, yet they continue to punch above their weight in La Liga. Bilbao’s mix of youth and experience has seen them in mid-table but capable of challenging for European spots
Head-to-Head History
This will be the first competitive meeting between AS Roma and Athletic Bilbao in European competitions. Both clubs have fared well historically against opposition from their respective countries:
- AS Roma has a solid record against Spanish teams, with 4 wins in their last 6 home encounters.
- Athletic Bilbao have struggled somewhat against Italian sides, having only won 1 of their last 5 away games in Italy.
The contrast in playing styles—Mourinho’s pragmatic and defensively robust Roma against Valverde’s high-pressing and fast-countering Bilbao—sets up a fascinating tactical battle.
Key Players to Watch
AS Roma (2024):
- Andrea Belotti (Forward) – Belotti has found renewed form in Roma’s attack. His physicality, finishing ability, and work rate make him a constant threat in the box. After some injury-plagued seasons, he’s now fully fit and leading the line effectively.
- Renato Sanches (Midfielder) – The Portuguese international joined Roma recently and has become an engine in midfield. His powerful runs and ability to break up play and transition quickly make him a key player in Mourinho’s system.
- Evan Ndicka (Defender) – The new defensive signing from Eintracht Frankfurt, Ndicka has slotted well into Roma’s backline. Known for his strength and aerial ability, he will be crucial in dealing with Athletic Bilbao’s counter-attacks and set pieces.
- Leandro Paredes (Midfielder) – Returning to Roma in 2024, Paredes provides creativity and control in the middle of the park. His passing range and ability to dictate the tempo will be vital in breaking down Athletic’s defense.
Athletic Bilbao (2024):
- Nico Williams (Forward) – One of the brightest young talents in Spain, Nico Williams has pace, dribbling skills, and finishing ability. He is crucial to Bilbao’s attacking play, often driving the team forward on the counter-attack.
- Oihan Sancet (Midfielder) – Sancet is one of the standout performers in midfield for Athletic Bilbao. He combines physicality with technical ability, making him dangerous both in possession and when pressing to win the ball back.
- Dani Vivian (Defender) – Vivian has grown into one of Bilbao’s most reliable defenders. His composure, strength, and leadership at the back make him essential in keeping Roma’s attackers at bay, particularly Belotti.
- Unai Simón (Goalkeeper) – As the first-choice keeper for both Athletic and the Spanish national team, Simón is known for his reflexes and command of the box. He’ll need to be in top form to handle Roma’s forwards and keep the game tight.
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Match Prediction
Given AS Roma’s tactical discipline and home advantage, they are expected to control the game. Athletic Bilbao, while dangerous on the counter, may struggle to break down a well-organized Roma defense. Expect a close contest, but the Italians should edge it.
Predicted Score: AS Roma 2-1 Athletic Bilbao
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