Things are on a knife edge going into the second leg of the Europa League knockout round playoff tie between Roma and Feyenoord.
The Stadio Olimpico will provide the backdrop on Thursday evening, and the game is nicely poised at 1-1.
These two sides have been jostling for supremacy over the past few seasons on the continent, and Roma won’t want to bow out this early having made the Europa League Final last term.
A compelling first leg saw an abundance of chances, some more gilt-edged than others, fashioned out by both sides.
Roma prepared for this tie with a comfortable 3-0 win over Frosinone over the weekend, while Feyenoord kept their faint Eredivisie title hopes alive with a 1-0 victory over RKC Waalwijk.
But who will grab the spoils and take their place in the Round of 16? I have scurried off to the betting markets in search of some value lines for you to tuck into.
Roma to sneak through
Roma more than played their part in an absorbing first leg, however, they were given a stern test.
Feyenoord, who have conceded just once in their past seven matches in all competitions, have been involved in some tense affairs over the past few years with their Serie A opponents.
After coming off second best in the Europa Conference League Final in 2022 and then last term in the Europa League quarter-finals, Feyenoord will be hoping that the third time is a charm.
Of course, Roma will have to withstand some pressure, and Feyenoord will throw the kitchen sink at the situation.
Again, this game could provide goals, but I fancy Roma to creep over the line.
For my first pick, I’ve gone with Roma to win and advance & BTTS. Paddy Power has obliged with a tempting price of 16/5 for that outcome.
Romelu Lukaku to be the difference maker
Previously, a maligned figure, Romelu Lukaku appears to be revitalised at Roma.
On loan from Inter Milan, the Belgian frontman has been in terrific form this term, hitting 24 goals for club and country this term.
In the first leg against Feyenoord, Lukaku was a menace, and he rescued a draw with a perfectly cushioned header into the bottom corner of the net.
When he has the bit between his teeth, Lukaku can be a slippery customer, and Feyenoord will have to be aware of him.
However, I can envisage Lukaku following up with another goal against Roma’s venerable Dutch opponents, and he could score with his head again.
If you like a good match special, then William Hill has delivered a telling price of 17/2 for Lukaku to net with a header that could be worth pursuing further.
Bet £10, Get £50 in Bonuses
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