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It's hard to say which of the two, Roma or Lazio, has the tougher match on this third Europa League matchday. On paper, both teams are favorites, but their current form, especially their psychological state, must be considered. Both come into the match following a domestic loss, but their situations differ. On the Roma side, fan discontent with the management is weighing down an already challenging period. On the Lazio side, they were defeated by Juventus, but only after playing a strong match despite being down to ten men.
The Europa League standings reflect these contrasting moments: Lazio tops their group with 6 points and will be looking to maintain their lead against Twente in the Netherlands (7 goals scored and only 1 conceded, against Nice). Roma, under Juric, has just 1 point and desperately needs a win against Dynamo Kyiv to avoid further complications.
As for the other matches, the standout fixture is Fenerbahçe vs. Manchester United, marking Mourinho's return to Old Trafford. Here too, the standings show opposing fortunes, with the Turkish side on 4 points and the English team on just 2, needing a recovery after a lackluster start to the season.
Lyon, hosting Besiktas led by Immobile, will be looking to stay close to the top, as will Tottenham against AZ Alkmaar or Anderlecht at home against Ludogorets. A more balanced encounter is expected between Rangers and Steaua Bucharest. Among the teams needing a response is Vitor Bruno's Porto, stuck at just 1 point and facing Hoffenheim at home. Rounding out the Europa League action on Thursday are Qarabag vs. Ajax, Bilbao vs. Slavia Prague, and Malmö vs. Olympiacos.
