As the UEFA Europa League group stage reaches its midpoint, Roma and Dynamo Kiev prepare for a pivotal encounter at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening. Both teams are still searching for their first victory in this season’s competition, making this match crucial for their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages.
Roma, under new coach Ivan Juric, started the season promisingly but have hit a rough patch in recent weeks. After an opening draw against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League, they suffered a shocking 1-0 defeat to Swedish side Elfsborg. This setback was followed by a draw against Monza and a narrow loss to Inter Milan in Serie A.
The Giallorossi’s poor run of form has led to speculation about Juric’s future, with rumors of club legend Daniele De Rossi being lined up as a potential replacement. This adds extra pressure on Juric to deliver a positive result against Dynamo Kiev.
Roma’s Europa League record is also a concern, as they are currently on a four-match winless streak in the competition – their longest such run to date. Breaking this cycle will be crucial for their campaign and Juric’s job security.
Dynamo Kiev’s Europa League campaign has been even more disappointing. The Ukrainian side has lost both of their opening matches, falling 3-0 to Lazio and 2-0 to Hoffenheim. These results have left them at the bottom of the group and struggling to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
The team’s recent Europa League form is particularly worrying, having lost nine of their last ten matches in the competition. They are also yet to score a goal in this season’s tournament, highlighting their offensive struggles on the European stage.
However, Dynamo’s domestic form offers a glimmer of hope. They currently lead the Ukrainian Premier League and are coming off a convincing 5-1 victory over FC Obolon.
This will be the fifth meeting between Roma and Dynamo Kiev, with all previous encounters coming in the Champions League group stage. The head-to-head record is evenly split with two wins apiece, adding another layer of intrigue to this matchup.
Juric is likely to employ his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation, focusing on solid defensive structure and quick counterattacks. Roma’s ability to control possession and create chances through their creative midfielders will be crucial.
Dynamo Kiev, under Oleksandr Shovkovskyi, may opt for a more cautious approach given their recent defensive frailties in Europe. Their 4-2-3-1 formation could shift to a more defensive 4-5-1 when out of possession, looking to frustrate Roma and hit on the counter.
Team News
For Roma, the potential debut of veteran defender Mats Hummels could provide a boost to their backline. In attack, Argentinian winger Matias Soule may get the nod over compatriot Paulo Dybala as Juric looks to rotate his squad.
Dynamo Kiev will be without suspended Maksym Bragaru and the injured Andriy Yarmolenko. Nazar Voloshyn is expected to start on the right wing, while Vladyslav Vanat, who scored twice in their recent league victory, could lead the line.
Expected Starting XIs
Roma: Svilar; Hermoso, Hummels, Ndicka; Celik, Pisilli, Cristante, Angelino; Soule, Baldanzi; Shomorudov
Dynamo Kiev: Bushchan; Karavayev, Popov, Mykhavko, Dubinchak; Brazhko, Mykolenko; Voloshyn, Buyalskyi, Kabayev; Vanat
Match Prediction
Given Roma’s home advantage and Dynamo Kiev’s struggles in Europe, the Italian side enters as favorites. However, the pressure on Juric and Roma’s recent inconsistency could make for a tense affair.
Prediction: Roma 2-1 Dynamo Kiev
