Italian side AS Roma and Portuguese outfit FC Porto will face off in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League playoff encounter at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Africa Football editor Allan Damba provides his prediction and betting tips.
Match Overview
Roma and Porto played out a 1-1 stalemate in the first leg at the Estádio do Dragão. Francisco Moura netted for FC Porto, while Zeki Çelik was on the scoresheet for AS Roma last week.
Both teams failed to finish in the top eight of their respective league tables, which would have secured them direct qualification to the Round of 16. As a result, they now have to battle through the playoffs for a place in the next round.
In their weekend fixtures, Roma edged Parma 1-0 in Serie A, thanks to a solitary goal from Matías Soulé. Meanwhile, Porto secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Farense, with Moura finding the net in the Portuguese top flight.
AS Roma Recent Form Analysis
AS Roma have suffered just one defeat in their last five matches, winning two and drawing two across all competitions. During this period, they have scored five goals and conceded the same number.
- Last five games: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss
- Latest result: Parma 0-1 AS Roma
FC Porto Recent Form Analysis
FC Porto remain unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions, recording two wins and three draws. They have scored six goals while conceding four.
- Last five games: 2 wins, 3 draws
- Latest result: Farense 0-1 Porto
Head-to-head (last five meetings)
- Porto 1-1 Roma
- Porto 1-1 Roma
- Porto 3-1 Roma
- Roma 2-1 Porto
- Roma 1-3 Porto
Our prediction for AS Roma vs Porto
The second leg is expected to be as competitive as the first, with both teams pushing for a place in the Round of 16. Bettors should consider placing a wager on Both Teams to Score (YES) at odds of 1.89 on 1xBet. Another solid option is a Double Chance (1X) bet at odds of 1.21 on 1xBet.
Player to watch
Evan Ndicka – The Ivorian international has been a key player for AS Roma this season, making 35 appearances and contributing to two goals. His defensive solidity will be crucial if Roma are to secure a positive result against Porto.
Best odds and betting tips
We’ve identified the following as the best betting options for this match:
- Both Teams to Score (YES) – 1.89 on 1xBet
- Double Chance (1X) – 1.21 on 1xBet
