Panathinaikos vs Roma: Preview, Predictions, Team News, Lineups
As the group stage of the Europa League approaches its conclusion, Roma prepares for a crucial match against Panathinaikos on Thursday. The Giallorossi, already secure in their advancement to the knockout rounds, need just a single point to guarantee a top-eight finish.
Match Preview: Panathinaikos vs Roma
Last week, Panathinaikos clinched their playoff spot with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Ferencvaros. Anass Zaroury scored late in the game, ensuring that the Greek side reached 11 points in the standings. They secured 19th place overall but missed the chance to finish in the top eight. Despite this setback, they will face one of Italy’s premier clubs at home in Athens.
The Greens have been formidable at home, winning five of their last seven European matches. Under the leadership of veteran coach Rafael Benitez, the team has achieved 11 victories in 19 games since his arrival in November. However, they trail 18 points behind Super League leaders AEK Athens after suffering a 4-0 defeat earlier this month.
Historical Context
In their previous encounters, Panathinaikos has a slight edge, having won two out of three meetings against Roma, both times by 3-2 back in 2010. However, Roma has kept clean sheets during their four other visits to Greece, presenting a challenge for the home side.
Current Form
| Team | Europa League Form | Overall Form |
|---|---|---|
| Panathinaikos | L L W W D D | L W W L D D |
| Roma | L L W W W W | W W L W W D |
Team News
Panathinaikos will be without key players familiar with Roma, including Filip Djuricic, Cyriel Dessers, and Karol Swiderski, the latter due to suspension. Ex-Milan defender Davide Calabria is uncertain due to illness, and Pedro Chirivella is nursing a calf injury.
- Andrews Tetteh is expected to lead the line in Swiderski’s absence.
- Zaroury, who has scored four Europa League goals this season, will provide vital support.
Roma faces its own challenges, with Manu Kone unavailable for at least three weeks due to a flexor injury. Niccolo Pisilli and Neil El Aynaoui are set to compete for a starting spot next to Bryan Cristante.
- Paulo Dybala may be rested following a knock against Milan.
- Leon Bailey has returned to Aston Villa, and several other players are injured or ineligible.
Predicted Lineups
Panathinaikos: Lafont; Calabria, Ingason, Touba, Kotsiras; Sanches, Gnezda Cerin; Pellistri, Bakasetas, Zaroury; Tetteh
Roma: Svilar; Mancini, Ziolkowski, Ghilardi; Celik, Cristante, Pisilli, Tsmikas; El Aynaoui, Pellegrini; Soule
Match Prediction
In expectations for this encounter, a draw seems likely. Such an outcome would secure Roma’s progression to the last 16 while ensuring Panathinaikos maintains its impressive home record in Europe. Thus, an evenly matched tactical battle between Benitez and Gasperini may conclude with a 1-1 stalemate.
For more insights and analysis on the match, visit Filmogaz.com.
