AS Roma – Bayer Leverkusen: Xabi’s ‘Neverlusen’ Prove Too Hot To Handle for Roma (0-2)

Bayer Leverkusen just seem unstoppable at the moment. Facing one of Italy’s most in-form teams in a European semi-final was no easy feat, yet Leverkusen displayed remarkable control and poise (once again). Xabi Alonso’s tactical adjustments also proved pivotal, leaving Roma struggling to find solutions. While there’s still another leg to play, it was evident that Alonso’s men are simply a class above De Rossi’s.

Tactical analysis and match report by Rahul Madhavan.

Heading into this clash, Bayer Leverkusen undoubtedly had an eye for revenge, as AS Roma eliminated them in the very same stage during last season’s Europa League. Both teams have progressed significantly since then, but the ambition to achieve European glory remained the same.

For Roma, the return of one of their own has rejuvenated the club from the bitter end they endured under José Mourinho. Daniele De Rossi’s brand of football has not only been pleasing to the eye but has also produced results, with Roma winning thirteen games and suffering only three defeats during his twenty-game tenure. Whether it’s a honeymoon phase or not, Roma appear to be on an upward trend, and had their sights set on rectifying last season’s loss to Sevilla in the final.

De Rossi made three changes from their recent 2-2 draw against Napoli, but Mile Svilar retained his position in goal. Chris Smalling and Rick Karsdorp joined the back four alongside Gianluca Mancini and Leonardo Spinazzola, who kept their places. Bryan Cristante was preferred . . .