I can't believe how badly AM have struggled to score goals this season. They have scored 2 goals in the CL and 16 goals in 12 games in league.
Diego Costa is going to fix that for them, good thing we have a chance to knock them out now before he joins them.
This one's going to be our hardest test yet. They're desperate and Simeone will have plenty of ammunition to use as motivation. But, if we can withstand the initial 25-30 minutes, I like our chances. Hopefully, we can find a way to ensure Dzeko is involved, because he was far too isolated last time. That could have been due to the unfamiliarity of EDF's tactics, but I can see the same issue occurring again.
We were not ready for a seasoned side like Atletico in the first match and thankfully had luck on out side. If we can counter them and get an early goal its the perfect scenario to setup against them. I trust they will put in a brave performance at the very least which is saying something considering our recent history.
As expected, there will be some rotation for this match, some of it is not optional. Peres, Juan, Pellegrini, Gonalons and one of Gerson/Defrel are likely to start. DDR and Florenzi are sure to be rested. Maybe Ninja also to give him more time to heal. While the match is against a top team, this is the least important match in the coming stretch of games, as beating Qarbag at home will take us through regardless of the result of this game.
Chelsea playing 3 hours earlier is nice. If they pull an Atletico and only get a draw in Azerbaijan, we're already qualified for the round of 16 and would top the group if we beat Quarabag at home. No matter how we play in Madrid.
Alessandro Florenzi has been left out of the #ASRoma squad for tomorrow’s #UCL clash with #AtleticoMadrid. https://t.co/UNlcyGS5g0 pic.twitter.com/tRmH4e2ivd— Football Italia (@footballitalia) November 21, 2017
Simeone praised both Di Francecso and Roma in his presser. Despite his scummy playing history, it's been hard not to soften up towards him these last few years.
Very odd as a Roma fan going into this match, with not having to win and even seeing us lose, would not be the end of the world. Atletico are crap this season, still in Madrid this will be difficult. If we pace ourselves and do not taking stupid risks, we will at least get a draw.
I know this game isn't as important but a draw and you're through. I hope you guys can get the win though
So Florenzi left out of the squad. Said to be precautionary only, but I cant help but feel a little concerned about that. With qualification in our hands regardless of tonights result, I just hope the required motivation/effort/concentration will be there to get a result in what will obviously be a very tough game. Would be great to wrap up qualification with a game to spare.
I haven't seen the game on Fox Sports Go's schedule or Watch ESPN. Does anyone know who will be streaming the game today?