GIALLOROSSI YORKSHIRE BLOG
Roma will look to make it into the qualification spots at the halfway point of the Champions League group stage when they face CSKA Moscow tonight.
A win would lift Roma into at least second place - depending on how Real Madrid fare against Viktoria Plzen - after three games, ahead of the return fixture with the Russians in a fortnight. However, it won't be plain sailing, as CSKA have proven themselves to be a stern challenge to Roma's aspirations of making the knockout rounds. Tonight's opponents currently lead Group G after stunning Real Madrid on matchday two with a 1-0 win. It has become clear that CSKA pose a significant threat to Roma's likely target of finishing second. Croatian attacking midfielder Nikola Vlasic has scored in both of CSKA's group stage games so far, including a 95th-minute equaliser against Viktoria in September. He also found the net in their most recent Russian Premier League game, a 2-0 win over Anzhi on Friday. Roma's defence, which has not been water-tight recently, must be on their A-game to stop him. However, one key man who will be absent for the visitors is goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev, who was sent off against Real Madrid and so will miss the game through suspension. Akinfeev has been hugely important for the club over the years, a one-club man who serves as their captain. CSKA's two alternative keepers have not made as many appearances in their whole careers put together as Akinfeev has in this season alone, so this will be a boost for Roma's strike force. Who will comprise Roma's attack remains to be seen. Edin Dzeko endured a frustrating afternoon against SPAL on Saturday, but with Patrik Schick only just recovering from a muscle problem, the former is likely to start. Cengiz Under should flank him on the right, with Justin Kluivert and Stephan El Shaarawy competing for a place on the left wing. Crucially, Kostas Manolas is in the squad after missing the loss to SPAL. Roma missed his solidity in Saturday's game, and his experience can benefit Roma tonight. Two men who won't be playing though, are Argentine duo Javier Pastore and Diego Perotti, who are both injured. The game kicks off at 8pm UK time. Can Roma get back to winning ways? Projected Roma lineup:
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samuel bannister
Founder and editor of Giallorossi Yorkshire, who is also a columnist for Roma's official website about the women's team. Categories
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October 2019
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