Roma and Lazio Aspire for Quarter-Final Glory in Europa League
As the clock ticks down to the return leg of the Europa League Round of 16, both Roma and Lazio are geared up for their respective battles against Athletic Bilbao and Viktoria Plzen. Each side is eyeing a coveted spot in the last eight, with both teams holding a slight edge from the first legs.
Claudio Ranieriโs Roma secured a narrow 2-1 victory over the Basque outfit at the Olimpico, while Baroniโs Lazio managed a 2-1 win despite being down to ten men, thanks to a dramatic late winner from Gustav Isaksen in added time.
Anticipation Builds for Possible Opponents
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, with the potential for Roma to meet the winner of the Fenerbahce versus Glasgow Rangers clash in the quarters. The Scots hold a 3-1 advantage after their first leg in Turkey, while Mourinhoโs side faces a tall order should they wish to renew acquaintances with their former gaffer.
Fans in the capital fondly remember Mourinhoโs time, and the prospect of his return for a quarter-final tie remains a tantalising, albeit challenging, dream. The Rangers will be keen to protect their two-goal cushion and cement their place amongst the elite.
Lazio's Road Ahead
On the flip side of the bracket, Lazioโs path could lead them to face either Olympiacos or Bodo Glimt, both of whom are manageable foes on paper. With Bodo currently up 3-0 from their first leg against the Greeks, they appear well poised for progression.
Lazioโs slot in the left side of the draw also puts them near storied rivals Ajax and Tottenham, eyeing potential semi-final matchups. For now though, the biancocelesti must focus on holding their ground following their Czech triumph, knowing that a dream derby against Roma is still a possibility, lurking round the corner.
The road to glory remains open, but only time will tell how far these teams will go.
© RIPRODUZIONE RISERVATA