AS Roma – Brighton : Preview & Prediction
The Roma board’s decision to sack Jose Mourinho and replace him with Daniele De Rossi in January appears to be one that is increasingly justified, with the Italian club enjoying a great moment under the tutelage of a legend of the institution. They go into this UEFA Europa League (UEL) round of 16 first leg against Brighton unbeaten in five official matches (G4, E1), which includes a pair of 1-1 draws in the previous playoff round against Feyenoord, in a series in which Roma advanced via the penalty shootout round.
Having lost in the final of this competition last season, Roma know that winning at home would help them in their quest to improve on that earlier result. History at least is in their favor, with English opponents having poor records against them at the Stadio Olimpico, with Roma winning seven of their last eight European home games against Premier League sides.
While the home side come into this clash on fire, the same cannot be said for Brighton, who have managed just one win in their last five games in all competitions (E1, P3). For the high standards that have been set by manager Roberto de Zerbi, it is fair to say that the Seagulls have lost some spark recently, especially in front of goal, with Lewis Dunk’s injury time goal in the second half against Everton over a week ago being the only goal they have scored in their last three games.
Despite the debutant’s lack of previous experience in European competition, they have rarely been outplayed in continental action this season, especially away. Brighton are unbeaten in that capacity in this UEL campaign, with their two most recent away appearances (Ajax 2-0 and AEK 1-0) contributing to a run of four consecutive UEL wins without conceding a goal.
Players to watch: Romelu Lukaku found the back of the net in a 4-1 win over Monza last weekend, and the Roma striker will be hoping to add to his excellent scoring record in 17 of his last 19 UEL games. With the competition’s top scorer, Joao Pedro, unavailable, Brighton could turn to the experience of another former Manchester United striker, Danny Welbeck, who has five UEL goals in his career – although the last was scored in October 2018.
Standout Fact: Roma have lost just once in their last 30 home games in UEFA competition.
AS Roma – Brighton : Betting Tips
AS Roma – Win Odds: 2.25
