Porto’s recent form in domestic games (D3, L2) may not be their best, but they managed to secure a crucial victory against Maccabi Tel Aviv on matchday eight of the UEFA Europa League (UEL), keeping their season alive. In the last three years, they have made it to the last 16 of a European competition, and they will have to defeat Roma in this round to continue the trend. In previous meetings, Porto has had success against Roma, winning three out of the three European knockout matches (W3, D2, L1). However, despite this impressive record, the confidence of home supporters may be shaken as Porto has only managed to win five out of their last 25 major European knockout games (D4, L16) against any opponent. But with four of those wins taking place at home, the first leg being held at Dragão Stadium gives them a chance to fight back.
Roma, on the other hand, has had a turbulent start to their season, but under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, they have managed to secure an unbeaten run of eight games in Serie A (W5, D3). Their next challenge will be to replicate this form in Europe, as they have a poor record in away games in this competition, with only three wins in their last 19 UEL away games (D8, L8), one of which was against AC Milan. Ranieri himself has not had much success in European knockout matches, losing nine out of his last 11 (W1, D1).
Keep an eye on Porto’s Samu, who was their top scorer in the league phase (G5), but has not scored in the last six games and has received three cards during that time (YC2, RC1). Roma’s Artem Dovbyk, who was their top scorer in the league phase (G2), is known for his entertaining goals, with six out of his last seven scoring appearances resulting in both teams finding the net. Interestingly, all of Ranieri’s last three European knockout matches with Roma have ended in 3-2 defeats.
