Massara: ‘Roma can’t wait, Europa League is a target’ | OneFootball

Roma director Ricky Massara ‘can’t wait to experience’ the Europa League Round of 16 against Bologna, noting the trophy is ‘a target we want to aim for.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Rakow vs. Fiorentina on the Liveblog.

The first leg ended 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara, so it’s winner takes all today for a place in the quarter-final against either Aston Villa or Lille.

Roma ready for Bologna test

WALSALL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Frederic Massara, Sporting Director of AS Roma, looks on prior to the pre-season friendly match between Aston Villa and AS Roma at Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on August 06, 2025 in Walsall, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

“This is a stadium that can really push the players, there is a great atmosphere, and it will be a wonderful event,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.

“We can’t wait to experience this match. Roma have a strong ambition in the Europa League, it is a target we want to aim for.

“There are many games to be played from here to the end, starting with a strong Bologna side, so this is going to be difficult.”

ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Stephan El Shaarawy of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Genoa at Stadio Olimpico on January 17, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Roma have been going through a bit of a rough spell lately, managing only two draws from their last four competitive games and sliding down from fourth in the Serie A table to sixth.

Their progress in the Europa League therefore becomes particularly important, as winning the trophy represents another avenue into Champions League qualification.

“There will be strong motivation this evening from the crowd, but we also need to keep clear heads to deal with many dangers,” added Massara.

“We have confidence, we expect the experienced players to act as guides for the younger ones who aren’t as accustomed to this type of match.”