Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
On Saturday, AS Roma secured their first victory since late October, demolishing Lecce (4:1). It seems Claudio Ranieri's staff have found the perfect combinations for their strategy, so the Italians will be aiming for victory against SC Braga. Climbing the league table and putting pressure on their top-eight rivals is crucial for them.
AS Roma
Their visit to Tottenham Hotspur (2:2) in the fifth round of the Europa League showcased AS Roma's character, as they managed to score twice from free kicks and corners, generating 2.29 xG with 18 shots. With a 3-4-3 formation, the Romans allow José Ángel “Angeliño” to push forward— the Spaniard has rediscovered fine form and is a valuable asset in their attacks. Against Lecce, AS Roma created an overwhelming advantage in chances (1.92–0.92 in xG and 9–1 in shots on target), with Stephan El Shaarawy and Niccolò Pisilli contributing significantly, each involved in two goal actions (1+3 total).
SC Braga
In the current Europa League campaign, SC Braga are far from their best form—conceding seven goals in five matches (only two teams in the top-20 have a less reliable defence). Their trips to Olympiacos (0:3) and Elfsborg (1:1) were essentially failures, with a combined 2.45 xGA. At the Stadio Olimpico, their main defender Paulo Oliveira will be absent due to a muscle injury.
AS Roma vs SC Braga Prediction
In February 2021, Roma twice defeated Braga in the first round of the Europa League play-offs (2:0 and 3:1). We believe that Roma's individual total inspires confidence—Claudio Ranieri has found a way to connect with his players.
