Italian heavyweights AS Roma and Juventus are preparing for a showdown that could prove decisive in the Serie A race for Champions League qualification.
With both clubs sitting on the edge of the top four, this fixture carries significant impact not only for their league aspirations but also for their reputations on the European stage.
A win for either side could define their season, while a draw might not be good enough for either.
Roma have been the surprise package of the second half of the season. Since the return of Claudio Ranieri to the dugout, the Giallorossi have been nearly unstoppable, going 14 matches unbeaten and winning their last seven league games.
Ranieri’s calming influence, tactical discipline, and ability to bring out the best in players like Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini have turned Roma into serious contenders for a top-four finish.
On the other hand, Juventus have been far less convincing. The Bianconeri parted ways with manager Thiago Motta in March after a string of disappointing results and brought in Igor Tudor to steady the ship.
Despite earning a narrow win over Genoa recently, Juventus look unconvincing, especially in the final third. Their struggles in attack could be exposed by a Roma side full of confidence and momentum.
With just a handful of matches left in the season, both teams know that any dropped points could prove fatal.
For Juventus, failing to qualify for the Champions League would be a major setback, both financially and in terms of attracting top talent. For Roma, it would be a deserved return to Europe’s biggest stage after years of rebuilding.
