Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League match.
AS Roma will be desperate to bounce back on Thursday after their shock home defeat to Lille (0:1) and the loss of top spot in Serie A. However, they face a tricky test against an unbeaten Viktoria Plzeň side that have started its Europa League campaign brightly.
AS Roma
Currently fourth in Serie A with 15 points from seven matches, Roma have shown maturity under Gian Piero Gasperini but continue to suffer from poor finishing. Back-to-back home defeats to Lille (0:1) and Inter Milan (0:1), despite producing higher expected goals (1.35 xG vs 0.63 against Inter), highlighted their wastefulness in front of goal. Their Europa League journey began with a 2:1 win over Nice — two quick goals in three minutes — but the follow-up loss to Lille was a frustrating one, as they squandered 2.61 xG and even missed three penalties. Gasperini’s pragmatic approach has brought balance, but defensive lapses persist: Roma have conceded in five of their last seven matches in all competitions.
Viktoria Plzeň
The Czech side sit fourth in their domestic league with 19 points from 12 rounds, trailing Slavia and Sparta Prague by over seven points. Yet in Europe, Viktoria have impressed. A 1:1 draw with Ferencváros was followed by a dominant 3:0 win over Malmö, and their attacking form has been outstanding — scoring in 10 of their last 11 matches, including four games with at least three goals. Their quick transitions and composure in front of goal make them dangerous even away from home.
AS Roma vs Viktoria Plzeň Prediction
AS Roma remain favourites at the Olimpico, but their defensive inconsistency and wasteful finishing create openings for the visitors. Viktoria’s attacking sharpness should allow them to find the net at least once, even if Roma ultimately take the points.
