Why Roma Are A Tougher Test For Liverpool Than Barcelona

When Kostas Manolas’s goal completed a miraculous comeback from a 4-1 deficit for Roma, many Liverpool fans were delighted; not only had Barcelona (who were desperate to unsettle The Reds in their pursuit of Philippe Coutinho) been sent home, on paper, Liverpool’s chances to return the Champions League back to Anfield had increased.

However, while for most clubs, Barcelona would be an obvious team to avoid, the Catalan giant’s style is one which Liverpool could exploit much more than the tricky Italians. Jurgen Klopp has led the team to three straight victories over Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City; teams who want to play fluid, attacking football will come undone against The Red Men.

Effectively, whilst Roma are less reputable than the likes of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Barcelona, in terms of play styles, they could prove to be the trickiest. The Italians have not conceded a goal in their last four games – and they will be looking to try and frustrate Liverpool’s attack, in an attempt to keep the tie alive for the second leg.

Perhaps, two of the most interesting battles on the pitch will be between both sets of fullbacks. Roma commonly utilise Aleksandar Kolarov and Alessandro Florenzi in their attacks who have 14 assists between them across the Serie A and Champions League –  but with Andy Robertson and Alexander-Arnold also looking to advance up the flanks, this will create a constant battle for position – which Liverpool can look to nullify two of Roma’s most effective players.

Ultimately, away from the creativity of Radja Nainggolan, I Giallorossi’s biggest threat is from crossing situations and set pieces. Edin Dzeko has scored 20 goals so far this season, so it’s clear who the Serie A outfit will primarily be targeting. Of course, this isn’t the most ideal threat to face for The Reds after the weekend game against West Brom, but the negative result will have only increased emphasis on defending.

Despite Eusebio Di Francesco claiming that his side will play high up the pitch, it seems more likely that the Italians will be wary of Liverpool’s front three, and, therefore, employ a much more conservative outlook to avoid a repeat of the 4-1 defeat to Barcelona at Camp Nou. While La Lupa have played attacking football in the Serie A, Manchester City’s exit from the Champions League acts as a clear warning – Di Francesco is bluffing, but Roma cannot be underestimated.

It is against defensive teams where Liverpool have been frustrated in some games this season, and with the Italian opposition being more than capable of playing this way, The Reds must remain patient, but also confident – a factor in which the magnificent, unique Anfield atmosphere will be significant in ensuring.