Aiming to secure their spot in the last 16 of the Europa League, AS Roma will travel to Athens to face Panathinaikos on Thursday. Having already clinched a place in the knockout rounds, Roma needs just one point to ensure a top-eight finish in the competition, while their Greek counterparts recently qualified for the playoffs following a dramatic draw in their last match.
Panathinaikos, building on a previous 1-1 draw against Ferencvaros, has confirmed their advancement to the knockout stage. They are currently positioned 19th in the league table but have successfully secured a place in the top 24 of the tournament’s standings. Despite their success, they cannot progress to the top eight and will set their sights on the upcoming playoff round. The Greens boast an impressive home record in European competitions, having won five of their last seven games at home, including notable past victories over Fiorentina in the Conference League.
Under the management of Rafael Benitez since November, Panathinaikos has experienced a mix of results, with 11 wins from 19 games across all competitions. The team is currently trailing behind AEK Athens in the Super League, a gap emphasized by their recent 4-0 defeat to the leaders.
As they anticipate the Europa League draw that will decide their playoff opponents, Panathinaikos looks to continue their unbeaten streak against Roma, having secured two previous victories over them back in 2010. Interestingly, aside from that past loss, Roma has kept clean sheets on all four of their subsequent visits to Greece.
Roma, known for their solid defensive capabilities with only 13 goals conceded in 22 league matches, recently achieved a reassuring 2-0 victory over Stuttgart, guaranteeing their place in the knockout phase. Rising star Niccolo Pisilli played a crucial role in that match, netting two goals and helping his squad ascend to sixth place in the league standings.
With a playoff spot secured, Roma is just one point shy of confirming a direct route to the last 16. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side is also focusing on their domestic ambitions, chasing a return to the Champions League after a stalemate with AC Milan kept them in contention.
In terms of team news, Panathinaikos will face challenges with several key players absent due to suspensions and injuries. Striker Karol Swiderski is set to serve a suspension, while doubts surround others like Davide Calabria, who is battling illness. Consequently, Andrews Tetteh is expected to lead the front line, supported by Anass Zaroury, who has been a standout performer with four Europa League goals.
Roma, however, has also been hit with injuries. Midfielder Manu Kone is expected to miss at least three weeks, and Paulo Dybala may be rested due to a recent injury. With further injury concerns affecting other players, including Leon Bailey and Artem Dovbyk, Roma will need to rely on their remaining squad depth when they face Panathinaikos.
Both teams are likely to view the match as an opportunity to solidify their respective positions in the tournament. A draw could suit both sides well; it would guarantee Roma’s passage into the last 16 while maintaining Panathinaikos’s strong home performance record.
As the Europa League excitement builds, fans can expect a tactical showdown between the seasoned managers Benitez and Gasperini, with implications for both sides as they look to make their mark in European football.