Europa League Preview: Master and Apprentice Clash as Elfsborg’s Defense Under Pressure, Yurich Undefeated in Three Games Since Taking Over at Roma

On October 4th at 3:00 AM, the second round of the Europa League group stage for the 2024/25 season will see Elfsborg host Roma. In the first round of the Europa League, Elfsborg suffered a disappointing 2-3 loss to AZ Alkmaar, failing to secure an opening victory. Roma experienced a similar fate, being held to a 1-1 draw by Athletic Bilbao at the Olympic Stadium.

Elfsborg recently defeated Kalmar 3-1 in the league and have achieved four wins and four draws in their last eight league matches. Essentially, Elfsborg has emerged from the low point of the early season. Their unbeaten run was briefly halted with a 2-3 loss to AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League. However, during that game, Elfsborg were largely outplayed, with AZ Alkmaar making 16 attempts on goal, nine of which were on target, and hitting the frame of the goal once. Meanwhile, Elfsborg only managed three attempts, two of which were on target and resulted in two goals. The offensive efficiency masked the team’s issues, and had they faced a more clinical team, Elfsborg might have suffered a heavy defeat.

Since Yurich took over, Roma have played three games across all competitions, winning two and drawing one, remaining undefeated. In the previous league match, Roma overturned a 1-2 deficit to beat Venezia 2-1. The game was much tougher than expected, with Venezia taking the lead through Bojan Jankulovski. Despite Roma’s dominance, Venezia’s counterattacks were lethal, and trailing by just one goal at halftime was the best possible outcome for Roma. In the second half, Venezia’s defense finally cracked, with Cristante and Picić scoring to secure a comeback win. Although they won, there are still many problems within the team, but time for adjustments is limited.

Compared to the winless streak at the start of the season, Roma’s situation has been significantly reversed under Yurich’s guidance. His humble and unassuming personality, coupled with his astute gaze behind black-rimmed glasses, has earned him renewed respect in the city, with club legend Francesco Totti also expressing admiration for the veteran coach. As he emphasizes, maintaining this momentum is crucial. The process can be challenging, even overwhelmingly passive, but securing a win is most important. Additionally, he stresses the need for Roma to improve their control of matches.

Statistical data shows that the two teams have never met before. However, in the Europa League, Elfsborg has faced Lazio from Rome, recording one win and one loss. Additionally, Elfsborg has faced Fiorentina and Napoli three times, without winning any of those encounters. It seems that Elfsborg struggles against Italian teams’ style. Facing a rising Roma, this psychological disadvantage may be further amplified.

Pre-match, the Italian newspaper “Il Messaggero” boldly predicted Yurich’s potential lineup for this game. The paper suggests that Angeliño and Çelik will occupy the flanks in defense, with Hummels and Hermoso likely starting. Paredes and Picić will partner in midfield, while Baldański, who has performed well recently, may continue to lead the attack. Furthermore, Shomurodov could displace Dovbyk in the starting lineup. According to Di Marzio, Sulejmani has a minor health issue, leaving his participation in doubt.

Elfsborg coach Hjelmemark stated that it was Yurich who brought him to Genoa, thus giving this match a master-apprentice flavor. He acknowledges Roma’s superior strength, both collectively and individually, and says his team must give their all. On the other hand, he believes they have figured out Roma’s tactics, so their defensive capabilities will face a significant test. Of course, for this 32-year-old coach, the match will be enjoyable.

>>”>More predictions and analysis for this match can be found here>>>