Porto vs. Roma: Europa League Knockout Round Showdown

 


Match Preview

Football fans are in for an exciting European night as FC Porto takes on AS Roma in the UEFA Europa League knockout round. The match will kick off at 21:00 CET on February 13, 2025, at the historic Estádio do Dragão in Porto, Portugal. With both teams aiming for European glory, this fixture promises drama, skill, and tactical brilliance.

Match Details

  • Competition: UEFA Europa League

  • Stage: Knockout Round

  • Date: February 13, 2025

  • Kickoff Time: 21:00 CET

  • Venue: Estádio do Dragão, Porto, Portugal

  • Broadcast Channels:

    • Portugal: Sport TV5 Portugal

    • Serbia: Arena Sport 4 HD Serbia

    • Greece: Cosmote Sport 8 HD

    • UK: TNT Sports 2

    • USA: Paramount+

    • Italy: Sky Sport

Team Overview

FC Porto

The Portuguese giants are looking to bounce back from a tough domestic run, having endured a five-match winless streak. However, their resilience was on display in their recent draw against Sporting CP. Manager Martín Anselmi will be keen to exploit Roma’s vulnerabilities and make full use of the home advantage.

Key Players:

  • Diogo Costa (Goalkeeper): A reliable presence between the sticks.

  • Pepe (Defender): The veteran leader in Porto’s backline.

  • Samuel Omorodion (Forward): A potential game-changer in attack.

AS Roma

Under Claudio Ranieri, Roma has been on an impressive run, remaining unbeaten in their last eight Serie A matches. With back-to-back away victories in the domestic league, they will be confident heading into this European clash.

Key Players:

  • Paulo Dybala (Forward): The creative spark in Roma’s attack.

  • Leandro Paredes (Midfielder): A vital presence in midfield.

  • Mats Hummels (Defender): A rock-solid figure in Roma’s defense.

Tactical Breakdown

  • Porto’s Formation (3-5-2): Expect a high-intensity pressing game with an emphasis on wing play.

  • Roma’s Formation (3-5-2): Likely to focus on defensive solidity while using quick counterattacks.

Market Value Comparison

  • FC Porto: €250 million

  • AS Roma: €350 million

Roma edges out Porto in squad valuation, but on the pitch, it’s anyone’s game.

Injury Updates

  • Porto: Ivan Marcano, Marko Grujić, and Martim Fernandes are unavailable.

  • Roma: Devyne Rensch is ruled out due to injury.

Predicted Lineups

FC Porto (3-5-2):
Goalkeeper: Diogo Costa
Defenders: Tiago Djalo, Nicolas Perez, Otavio
Midfielders: Joao Mario, Stephen Eustaquio, Andre Varela, Francisco Moura
Forwards: Pepe, Rodrigo Mora

AS Roma (3-5-2):
Goalkeeper: Mile Svilar
Defenders: Gianluca Mancini, Mats Hummels, Evan Ndicka
Midfielders: Alexis Saelemaekers, Manu Kone, Leandro Paredes, Angelino
Forwards: Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk

Match Prediction

Both teams have their strengths, making this a tough match to call. Porto will rely on their home support, while Roma’s momentum and tactical discipline could give them an edge. A 1-1 draw seems a likely outcome, setting up an exciting second leg.

Conclusion

Porto and Roma will leave it all on the pitch as they battle for a spot in the next round. With both teams showcasing top talent, expect a thrilling European night at Estádio do Dragão.


FAQs

  1. What time does the Porto vs. Roma match start?

    • The match kicks off at 21:00 CET on February 13, 2025.

  2. Where can I watch Porto vs. Roma?

    • The match will be available on Sport TV5 Portugal, Arena Sport 4 HD Serbia, Cosmote Sport 8 HD, TNT Sports 2 (UK), Paramount+ (USA), and Sky Sport (Italy).

  3. Who are the key players to watch?

    • Porto: Diogo Costa, Pepe, Samuel Omorodion.

    • Roma: Paulo Dybala, Leandro Paredes, Mats Hummels.

  4. What are the recent forms of Porto and Roma?

    • Porto is struggling domestically but remains competitive in Europe. Roma is unbeaten in their last eight Serie A matches.

  5. What is the expected scoreline?

    • A 1-1 draw seems like a fair prediction based on current form.

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