On February 13, 2025, the Estadio do Dragao will host a thrilling Europa League face-off between FC Porto and AS Roma. This match is poised for a 21:00 kickoff, and both squads are eager to grab a result. FC Porto, known for their solid home league record, haven’t tasted victory in their last four matches in all competitions. This puts a lot of emphasis on this clash with their Italian rivals. Roma enters the fray having made key squad changes in the recent transfer window, which they hope will boost their performance in the European arena.
FC Porto carries a rich legacy in European competitions, and playing at home will fuel their desire to excel in front of passionate fans. Roma, however, are riding a strong unbeaten streak in Serie A. Managed by Claudio Ranieri, they strive to continue their European adventure. While Porto deals with significant injuries affecting team selection, Roma faces minor fitness issues that could impact their lineup.
FC Porto vs Roma Prediction & Betting Tip
The game promises to be a tight contest, and a draw seems quite likely. Both teams are pretty evenly matched in terms of form and tactics, making a shared outcome a reasonable prediction. Odds for a draw are set between 3.55 and 3.56, which aligns with the recent form and stats from both sides.
| FC Porto vs Roma Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting Tip | Odds |
| Draw | 3.55 |
This prediction considers Porto’s current domestic struggles despite their impressive home form. Roma, with tactical dynamism and recent squad upgrades, make a draw conceivable.
FC Porto vs Roma Odds
The odds show a slight preference for FC Porto, mainly due to their strong home form in league games. Yet, the prospect of a draw is quite appealing given the balance between these two teams. Roma’s decent away results add value to their odds, even in the face of Porto’s home field advantage.
| FC Porto vs Roma Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| FC Porto Win | 2.45 |
| Draw | 3.55 |
| Roma Win | 2.90 |
These odds mirror the balanced nature of both teams’ form and highlight the tactical alterations both sides have made after the winter transfer window.
FC Porto Team Analysis
FC Porto Recent Performance
FC Porto has shown resilience but also faced challenges recently. They’ve recorded 1 win, 3 draws, and 1 loss in their last 5 matches. This includes a Europa League draw with Olympiacos and several domestic ties. Despite these struggles, Porto maintains a formidable home record, staying unbeaten at the Estadio do Dragao in their last 13 league games. However, turning draws into wins has been elusive for them.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| FC Porto | Braga | 1-1 |
| Vizela | FC Porto | 0-0 |
| Chaves | FC Porto | 0-0 |
| FC Porto | Olympiacos | 1-1 |
| Estoril | FC Porto | 1-0 |
Their results indicate trouble with finishing, as they’ve managed just 1 clean sheet while conceding 5 goals in these games, pointing to defensive vulnerabilities.
FC Porto Key Players
Goalkeeper Diogo Costa plays a crucial role, attracting interest from clubs like PSG with his steady performances. In defense, Tiago Djaló and Nehuén Pérez aim to shore up the backline, with Otavio leading midfield transitions. Rising talent Gonçalo Borges, rumored for a transfer, along with Rodrigo Mora in attack, will try to crack Roma’s defense. Newcomer Alan Varela is expected to add depth to the midfield.
FC Porto Suspensions & Injuries
The team faces key absences, including:
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Ivan Marcano | Cruciate ligament injury | Indefinite |
| Marko Grujic | Muscle injury | Indefinite |
| Martim Fernandes | Muscle injury | Mid-February 2025 |
These injuries strain Porto’s defensive resources, necessitating tactical adaptations. The lack of core defenders and midfielders puts pressure on squad depth, possibly requiring younger players to step up.
FC Porto Tactics and Formation
Expect Porto to stick with a 4-4-2 formation, emphasizing a solid defense and swift counter-attacks using pacey players. With Djaló and Pérez anchoring the defense, the team will rely on Varela for balance and Otavio for creative bursts in midfield. The setup can shift to a 4-3-3 for more aggressive attacks, seeking to exploit weaknesses in Roma’s defense.
Roma Team Analysis
Roma Recent Performance
Roma enters the match on solid footing, scoring 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in recent matches. Notable victories against Venezia and Eintracht Frankfurt illustrate their prowess in both league and European play. Their defensive competency is evident with 2 clean sheets in these fixtures.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Roma | Venezia | 2-0 |
| Roma | Eintracht Frankfurt | 1-0 |
| Lazio | Roma | 2-2 |
| Roma | Sampdoria | 3-0 |
| Atalanta | Roma | 0-1 |
Under Claudio Ranieri, Roma’s tactic-driven flexibility and their strategic changes after the January transfer interventions boost their European ambitions.
Roma Key Players
Paulo Dybala spearheads Roma’s attack, alongside Lorenzo Pellegrini who creates from midfield. The acquisition of Manu Koné enhances their midfield flexibility. Mats Hummels provides defensive stability, although his presence might hinge on his fitness. Dybala’s attacking flair and forward Dovbyk’s recent performance pose a considerable menace.
Roma Suspensions & Injuries
Roma needs to tactically address some fitness concerns:
| Player | Condition | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Leandro Paredes | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
| Mats Hummels | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
These fitness issues may lead to adjustments. Ranieri’s depth-oriented squad can adapt effectively, depending on late fitness evaluations for key players to minimize impact on their strategy.
Roma Tactics and Formation
Roma will likely deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation, which balances defensive reinforcement with strong forward play. This adaptable setup features wing-backs contributing in both attack and defense. Veteran defenders ensure tactical stability, while midfield control is crucial to dominating Porto.
FC Porto vs Roma Head-to-Head Statistics
When it comes to past encounters, Porto and Roma have usually had competitive matches. Out of their last five meetings, Porto won twice, Roma once, and there were two draws. This shows the fierce rivalry between them.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Porto | Roma | 3-1 |
| Roma | Porto | 1-1 |
| Porto | Roma | 2-1 |
| Roma | Porto | 3-0 |
| Porto | Roma | 1-1 |
Their previous clashes highlight the competitive spirit, with Porto’s last home game against Roma resulting in a decisive 3-1 victory in the Champions League.
Venue and Weather
The Estadio do Dragao sets an intimidating stage for visitors, with an expected full house. Weather in Porto forecasts mild conditions, a temperature of 12.57°C, and overcast skies. Such a comfortable climate, with minimal wind, offers ideal field visibility and supports a fast-paced game. These conditions should favor technical plays, which rely on agility and precision.
Both Porto and Roma are likely to face little weather disruption, allowing them to focus purely on executing their plans. The overcast atmosphere will help maintain player comfort, leading to a fair and exciting contest with potential for thrilling exchanges.
