Just three days after their triumphant Capital derby victory, Roma is gearing up for their seasonal debut in the Europa League. Tonight, at 9 PM local time, they will journey to the Allianz Riviera to challenge host club Nice in the inaugural matchday of Europe`s second-tier club competition. The responsibility of officiating the game, initially entrusted to Spanish referee Juan Martinez Munuera, has since been reallocated to his compatriot, Guillermo Cuadra Fernandez.
Nice`s Approach
During the pre-match press conference, coach Haise offered little in the way of specific team selection details. However, it is widely expected that the French side`s defense will be marshaled by their 41-year-old captain, Dante, who has successfully recovered from a recent knee issue. Their tactical setup is anticipated to mirror that of the Giallorossi, allowing for flexibility between a 3-4-2-1 and a 3-5-2 formation. Upfront, a familiar figure to Italian football fans, former Sassuolo and Atalanta player Boga, is projected to form an attacking partnership with Kevin Carlos.
Roma`s Approach
Gasperini is predicted to opt for a 3-4-1-2 system. The physical condition of Pellegrini will be a crucial factor, as he could once again be deployed behind Soulé, with El Shaarawy and either Ferguson or Dovbyk leading the attack. On the wide flanks, Rensch is likely to maintain his starting position on the right after his impressive performance in the derby, despite Wesley`s reintegration into the squad. Conversely, Tsimikas might be given an opportunity to start on the left. In the midfield, the partnership of Cristante and Koné is the most probable choice, though El Aynaoui remains hopeful for a chance. In defense, Hermoso is set to return, pairing with Mancini and Ndicka, but Ghilardi also remains a strong contender for a starting spot.
