Roma vs Feyenoord
UEFA Europa League
Round of 32
Thursday
22nd February 2024
Olimpico
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the UEFA Europa League fixture between Roma and Feyenoord.
Roma vs Feyenoord: Preview
Roma form analysis
Roma’s Europa League campaign portrays an inconsistent team still seeking the right balance between attack and defence for sustained continental success. After beating Slavia Prague 2-0 at home, Roma’s away form troubles resurfaced as they slipped to a 2-0 defeat in the Czech capital. However, striker Lukaku netted a precious away goal as they were held 1-1 by Servette. A convincing 3-0 home win over Sheriff followed as Lukaku and Belotti found the target.
But their knockout tie with Feyenoord showed Roma’s unpredictability as they needed Lukaku to secure a 1-1 away draw in the first leg. Overall, Jose Daniele De Rossi has built an organised unit capable of grinding out results but one still developing ruthlessness and control in attack. Lukaku’s goals have often papered over cracks that superior sides can exploit. Achieving better defensive focus and precision going forward is key for Roma to establish themselves as dark horses. Blending pragmatism with occasional flair can make them a dangerous knockout prospect if momentum builds over two legs.
Feyenoord form analysis
Feyenoord’s European campaign exhibited an entertaining, attacking team capable of testing elite opponents but prone to defensive errors against sophisticated attacks. After thrashing Lazio 3-1 at home, Feyenoord were unable to replicate that performance in the away fixture, slipping to a narrow 1-0 defeat. Their defensive issues were then harshly exposed in a 3-1 home loss to Atletico Madrid, undone by two own goals. A battling display saw them narrowly lose 2-1 away to Celtic to drop into the Europa League.
Their knockout tie with Roma showed Feyenoord’s unpredictability as they needed captain Paixão’s goal to secure a 1-1 home draw in the first leg.Overall, Arne Slot has built an exciting, dynamic team that can trouble any side on their day. However, he knows eliminating individual errors and instilling greater defensive discipline is vital for Feyenoord to establish themselves at Europe’s top table. Blending steel and nous with their attacking flair can make them dangerous Europa League dark horses. But cutting out sloppy goals remains crucial if they are to realise continental ambitions.
