European Showdown: Leverkusen vs. Roma - Who Will Secure a Spot in the Final?

Highly sought-after coach Xabi Alonso has already confirmed his commitment for another year at least, setting the stage for Leverkusen, the 1988 UEFA Cup winners and 2002 Champions League runners-up, to make their maiden Europa League final appearance.

Despite suffering only their second home defeat in 33 UEFA competition matches, Roma remains steadfast in their pursuit of a third consecutive European final appearance, although the prospects appear grim for the Eternal City side.

Under Jose Mourinho last year, Roma's 1-0 aggregate victory over Leverkusen in the Europa League semi-finals was followed by defeat to Sevilla in the final. They had lifted the inaugural Europa Conference League trophy just 12 months prior.

Current coach Daniele De Rossi, aiming to emulate his predecessor's European success, has overseen only four losses in 22 matches since taking charge following Mourinho's mid-season departure.

While Roma made a promising start under De Rossi's leadership, their goal-scoring form has dipped in recent outings, averaging just one goal per game over their last 11 matches. This slide has seen them slip to sixth place in the Serie A standings, tied on points with fifth-placed Atalanta, who have a game in hand.

Similar to Xabi Alonso, De Rossi has committed to continuing his work into the next season. However, a 1-1 home draw against Juventus over the weekend, despite taking the lead through Lukaku, has cast doubt on their chances of securing a coveted top-five finish.

Roma could still qualify for the Champions League via Europa League success, but a remarkable comeback is required to become just the third team to reach successive finals in Europe's second-tier tournament.

Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 Roma

Bayer Leverkusen vs Roma stream and TV listing

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