Thu Mar 13 18:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Athletic Bilbao Faces Up Hill Battle Against Roma in Europa League Clash

**Bilbao, Spain** – Athletic Bilbao will attempt a dramatic comeback against AS Roma in the Europa League Round of 16 second leg on Thursday at San Mames Stadium, the venue for this season’s final. Roma holds a slim 2-1 advantage after a thrilling first leg in Rome.

Despite taking an early lead through Inaki Williams, Athletic’s hopes were dashed by a late Roma goal from Eldor Shomurodov, who secured a 2-1 victory for the Italian side with a 94th-minute strike. The Basque side’s task is made even harder by the suspension of Yeray Alvarez, who was sent off in the first leg.

While Athletic boasts an impressive home record in the Europa League – winning all four home matches this season – and a strong historical record against Italian teams (eight wins from ten home games), Roma arrives in confident mood. They’ve won their last six Serie A games and are unbeaten in the league in 2024, enjoying a resurgence under manager Claudio Ranieri. Furthermore, Roma boasts a remarkable record in European knockout ties, having progressed from each of their last nine when winning the first leg.

Athletic, however, will be buoyed by their own strong home form in La Liga and the return of key players from injury and suspension. Inaki Williams, who has scored five Europa League goals this season, is set to lead the attack alongside his brother Nico. Manager Ernesto Valverde will also be looking for a response from his team after a recent dip in form, which has seen them lose twice and draw once in their last three matches.

The match promises to be a tense affair, with Athletic needing to score at least twice to progress. While Roma’s recent form suggests a strong likelihood of victory, a passionate home crowd and a rich history of European success give Bilbao a fighting chance to overcome the deficit and reach the quarter-finals. The potential for an exciting and dramatic conclusion is high, making this a highly anticipated fixture.

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