Roma will face Dynamo Kyiv in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday evening at the Stadio Olimpico, with both teams eager to secure their first win of the group stage.
Roma comes into this match after a disappointing series of results, while Dynamo Kyiv has also struggled in their Europa League campaign, making this a critical match for both sides.
Roma Recent Form
Roma's form has been inconsistent lately, with their Europa League campaign off to a rough start. After a surprising 1-0 defeat to Elfsborg, Roma also failed to pick up momentum domestically, drawing 1-1 with Monza and then suffering a 2-0 defeat to Inter Milan.
Despite controlling possession and creating opportunities, they have failed to turn these chances into victories, leaving them winless in their last three matches across all competitions.
Injury and Team News
Roma will be without Stephan El Shaarawy (calf injury) and Alexis Saelemaekers (ankle injury), while Ivan Juric may look to rotate the squad ahead of their Serie A clash with Fiorentina.
Enzo Le Fee has returned from injury and could feature, and veteran defender Mats Hummels is expected to make his long-awaited debut. Paulo Dybala could be rested, with Matias Soule taking his place in the attacking line.
Last Roma Lineup
Here is how Roma lined up in their last match:
Dynamo Kyiv Recent Form
Dynamo Kyiv has had a tough time in the Europa League, losing both of their opening matches against Lazio and Hoffenheim.
The Ukrainian side has failed to score in the competition so far and conceded seven goals in their last three European outings.
However, domestically, they have been dominant, securing a 5-1 win against FC Obolon in their last Ukrainian Premier League match, placing them two points clear at the top of the table.
Injury and Team News
For Dynamo Kyiv, Ukraine Under-21 international Maksym Bragaru remains suspended after a red card against Lazio, while star striker Andriy Yarmolenko is a doubt.
Oleksandr Pikhalionok and Brayan Ceballos will also miss out due to injury. Nazar Voloshyn is expected to start on the right wing in Yarmolenko's absence.
Last Dynamo Kyiv Lineup
Here is how Dynamo Kyiv lined up in their last match:
Roma Player to Watch
Matias Soule could be a key player for Roma in this match. Expected to step in for Paulo Dybala, Soule has shown promise on the wing and will look to take advantage of Dynamo Kyiv’s struggling defence.
Dynamo Kyiv Player to Watch
Nazar Voloshyn will be vital for Dynamo Kyiv in attack. With Yarmolenko likely unavailable, Voloshyn needs to step up and provide creativity and goal-scoring chances from the right flank.
Prediction
Roma should have enough quality to edge out Dynamo Kyiv, especially with their superior record at home.
Dynamo's defensive frailties and inability to score in Europe could make it difficult for them to compete in this fixture. A tight game is expected, but Roma should come out on top.
Our Prediction: Roma 2-1 Dynamo Kyiv
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Roma to Win
Roma’s home advantage and Dynamo’s struggles in the Europa League make this a favourable bet.
Tip 2: Both Teams to Score
Despite Dynamo’s poor form in Europe, their attacking prowess domestically suggests they could find the net.
Tip 3: Under 3.5 Goals
Given both teams' recent form, this match is unlikely to see a high-scoring outcome.
