Alkmaar Roma Starting Lineups Europa League

Trend Breaks

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Jan 24, 2025

43 visitor like this post

Share

Alkmaar vs. Roma: Europa League Starting Lineups – My Predictions & Past Heartbreak

Hey everyone! So, the Europa League is on and we've got a cracking match-up: AZ Alkmaar versus AS Roma. A huge game! I'm buzzing for this one, and I figured I'd share my predicted starting lineups, along with a little story about my own Europa League heartbreak – because, let's be honest, we've all been there, right?

Predicting the Alkmaar Starting XI

Predicting lineups is always a gamble, a total crapshoot sometimes! But based on recent form and injury reports – which, let me tell you, are a nightmare to keep track of – this is what I reckon we'll see from AZ Alkmaar. I'm basing this partly on their last few games, and partly on gut feeling, which is probably not the best strategy, but hey!

• Goalkeeper: I'm going with Verhulst. He’s been solid for them.
• Defenders: A back four of Hatzidiakos, Martins Indi, Beukema, and Kerkez. Solid, experienced, but Kerkez could be a bit of a wildcard – he loves to bomb forward.
• Midfielders: I'm thinking a midfield three of Milik, Reijnders, and de Wit. Reijnders, that guy's a real engine.
• Forwards: Up top, Pavlidis and Van Bergen look likely. Their pace could really trouble Roma's defense.

This Alkmaar team is pretty fast and loves to counter. Their manager's really tactical, which could make it a tough match.

My Roma Lineup Guess

Predicting Roma's lineup is a little tougher. Mourinho's a master of the unexpected, so this could go a few ways. But, here's my best guess based on their recent games and Mourinho’s usual tactics.

• Goalkeeper: Patricio is probably the starter in goal.
• Defenders: A back four of Smalling, Ibanez, Mancini, and Zalewski seems the most likely. It's all about experience here.
• Midfielders: Expect a midfield three of Cristante, Matic, and Wijnaldum. Matic is the anchor, Cristante provides drive, and Wijnaldum...well, let's hope Wijnaldum brings his A-game!
• Forwards: Up front, I think we'll see Dybala and Abraham leading the line. They're always threats.

Roma’s defense is very strong. They're solid, organized, and experienced—exactly the kind of defense that can shut down Alkmaar’s quick counter-attacks.

My Europa League Blunder (and What I Learned)

Remember that time I completely misjudged a Europa League match? Ugh. I was so sure my team, Feyenoord, was going to win easily. I'd done all my research – or so I thought. I even bragged to my friends, making big bold predictions and placing a small (okay, maybe not so small) bet! They ended up losing 3-0. The pain! The absolute agony!

That taught me a valuable lesson: never underestimate your opponent. Even if you've done your research and think you know the game inside and out, things can – and will – change quickly. I now prioritize keeping up to date with the latest news, looking at team form, and considering injuries right up until kickoff.

Don't be like me – and don't make the same mistakes! Do your research, stay flexible, and accept the unexpected as part of the beautiful chaos that is football. Good luck!

Final Thoughts: AZ Alkmaar vs. AS Roma

This match is a coin flip. Alkmaar's pace against Roma's experience. It should be a really close match. Who are you rooting for? Let me know in the comments below!