Bayer Leverkusen and Roma are set to lock horns in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final at the BayArena on 09/05/2024.
Leverkusen hold a commanding 2-0 lead from the first leg in Rome and will be confident of progressing to the final. Here's a look at the predicted lineups and possible strategies for both teams.
Bayer Leverkusen Predicted XI
Goalkeeper: Matej Kovar
Defence: Edmond Tapsoba, Jonathan Tah, Piero Hincapié
Midfield: Jeremie Frimpong, Robert Andrich, Granit Xhaka, Alejandro Grimaldo
Attack: Florian Wirtz, Amine Adli, Patrik Schick
Key Players to Watch
Florian Wirtz will be instrumental in unlocking Roma's defence.
The 20-year-old forward scored in the first leg and will look to replicate his performance on home soil.
Granit Xhaka and Robert Andrich will anchor the midfield, providing both defensive stability and offensive creativity.
Tactical Approach
Xabi Alonso is expected to recall key players who were rested during Leverkusen's 5-1 thrashing of Eintracht Frankfurt.
The German side will aim to control possession, utilising the attacking width provided by Frimpong and Grimaldo.
Roma Predicted XI
Goalkeeper: Mile Svilar
Defence: Zeki Celik, Gianluca Mancini, Chris Smalling, Leonardo Spinazzola
Midfield: Bryan Cristante, Leandro Paredes, Lorenzo Pellegrini
Attack: Paulo Dybala, Romelu Lukaku, Stephan El Shaarawy
Key Players to Watch
Romelu Lukaku will be Roma's focal point in attack, supported by Paulo Dybala and Stephan El Shaarawy.
Lukaku has scored seven goals in the competition and will be a threat in the air. The experience of Chris Smalling and Leonardo Spinazzola will be crucial in defence.
Tactical Approach
Roma coach Daniele De Rossi will adopt an aggressive strategy, needing at least two goals to take the game to extra time.
With their recent form in European competitions, Roma will rely on their experienced players to overcome the deficit.
FAQ
When and where is the Bayer Leverkusen vs Roma match? The second leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final between Bayer Leverkusen and Roma will take place on 09/05/2024 at the BayArena in Leverkusen, Germany.
What is the aggregate score heading into the second leg? Bayer Leverkusen lead 2-0 on aggregate after their victory in Rome during the first leg.
Who are the key players to watch in the match? Bayer Leverkusen: Florian Wirtz and Granit Xhaka will play crucial roles in Leverkusen's attack and midfield control. Roma: Romelu Lukaku and Paulo Dybala will be the primary offensive threats for Roma.
What tactical approach can be expected from both teams? Bayer Leverkusen: Xabi Alonso will likely field a strong lineup, focusing on controlling possession with Frimpong and Grimaldo providing width. Roma: Daniele De Rossi's Roma will adopt an aggressive, attacking approach, needing two goals to overturn the deficit.
What are the current form and statistics for both teams in the Europa League? Bayer Leverkusen Europa League form: WDWWDW. Roma Europa League form: WWLWWL
