Roma’s path to direct qualification for the Europa League Round of 16 came to a bitter end with a late 1-0 defeat to AZ Alkmaar. A goal from Parrott in the final minutes sealed the Dutch side’s victory, leaving Ranieri’s team with no choice but to face Eintracht Frankfurt in a must-win playoff on January 30 at the Stadio Olimpico. Despite a spirited performance, the Giallorossi now find themselves in a precarious position.
Ranieri’s lineup featured some surprises, with Celik partnering Hummels in defense and Pisilli stepping in for Pellegrini in midfield. Upfront, Dybala and Dovbyk led the charge, while AZ fielded a dynamic attacking setup with Mijnans and Poku supporting striker Meerdink. The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides struggling to break through. Dybala was the standout for Roma, creating opportunities and probing the AZ defense. The best chance came in the 17th minute, but Goes denied Dovbyk with a crucial interception. AZ grew into the game and threatened with Mijnans, only to be stopped by Koné at the last moment.
In the second half, Ranieri introduced Soulé for Dovbyk, injecting more pace into the attack. Roma started brightly, with Angelino delivering a spectacular rabona cross to Dybala, whose volley narrowly missed the target. The Giallorossi pressed forward, controlling possession and attempting to unlock the compact AZ defense. Substitutions, including El Shaarawy and Baldanzi, added fresh legs, but just as Roma seemed poised to take the lead, disaster struck.
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A swift AZ counterattack in the 80th minute saw Wolfe set up Parrott, who slipped the ball under Svilar to give the Dutch side the lead. Roma fought valiantly in the closing stages, with Dybala orchestrating their final assaults, but the equalizer never came.
The defeat leaves Roma in a precarious position, with a critical playoff match against Eintracht Frankfurt now standing between them and further progress in Europe. It’s a do-or-die moment for Ranieri’s side, with everything on the line at the Olimpico.
