Roma’s Europa League campaign came to a heartbreaking end after a 3-1 defeat against Athletic Club in the Round of 16, a match heavily influenced by Mats Hummels’ early red card. The Giallorossi, who had secured a narrow 2-1 victory in the first leg, were unable to hold onto their advantage in Spain.
A Nightmare Start for Roma
Claudio Ranieri’s men faced an uphill battle from the 11th minute when Hummels was controversially sent off for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, despite the foul occurring near the center circle. Reduced to ten men, Roma struggled to impose themselves against an aggressive Athletic side.
Mile Svilar produced two outstanding saves to keep Roma in the game, denying Sannadi on both occasions. However, the Athletic striker squandered another chance with an ill-advised chip attempt. Nico Williams also came close to breaking the deadlock, striking the post with a beautifully curled effort. Roma, on the other hand, only managed a half-chance through Angelino’s trivela cross, which failed to connect with any teammates inside the box.
Athletic Takes Control
The hosts finally capitalized on their dominance just before halftime. Nico Williams, who had been a constant threat, latched onto a cross at the far post and fired past Svilar, with Angelino’s attempted deflection unable to prevent the goal.
Roma introduced Eldor Shomurodov in the second half, replacing Paulo Dybala, and the Uzbek striker nearly made an instant impact. However, his shot at the near post was well saved by Agirrezabala. Moments later, Svilar once again showcased his brilliance, diving quickly to deny Alex Berenguer from close range.
Berenguer, however, still played a crucial role in Athletic’s second goal, delivering a pinpoint corner kick that Yuri nodded home with a towering header. The Spaniards further extended their lead when Nico Williams produced a moment of magic, dribbling past three Roma defenders before calmly slotting the ball into the net.
Late Consolation for Roma
Despite the game being out of reach, Roma managed to pull one back in stoppage time. Andoni Gorosabel fouled Stephan El Shaarawy inside the box, earning the Giallorossi a late penalty. Leandro Paredes stepped up and coolly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, but it was too little, too late to alter the outcome.
A Disappointing End for the Giallorossi
Roma’s European journey came to a bitter end in Bilbao, with Athletic Club’s dominant performance securing their place in the quarter-finals. While Ranieri’s men showed glimpses of promise, the early red card and Athletic’s attacking prowess proved too much to overcome. Now, the Giallorossi must turn their focus to domestic competitions as they aim to bounce back from this European setback.
