Villarreal have only lost two of their last 14 matches in all competitions but have struggled to turn draws into wins. In fact, half of those matches have ended in a draw.
The Yellow Submarines have only won one of their last five in the Europa League and they must change that run to have any chance of overcoming Roma in this tie.
Roma have won nine of their last 11 matches and have kept a clean sheet in five of their last seven away matches in all competitions. Luciano Spalletti’s side will be happy to come away with a draw here and will fancy their chances of winning in the return leg at home. Naija and Bet
Team News
Villarreal – Roberto Soriano was sent off at the weekend but his suspension in La Liga will not prohibit his involvement in Thursday’s meeting with Roma.
Villarreal rotated their squad during the group stages and gave chances to the likes of Antonio Rukavina, Andres Fernandez and Jose Angel, although it remains to be seen whether they will employ a similar tactic for the business end of the competition.
Jonathan dos Santos, Víctor Ruiz, Antonio Rukavina and Rafael Borré are all one booking away from suspension.
Roberto Soldado is the only player unavailable for the home side on Thursday.
Roma – Alessandro Florenzi is the only Roma player unable to make the trip to Spain for the first leg of their Europa League clash with Villarreal.
The Europa League will give Roma manager Luciano Spalletti the chance to rotate his players with the likes of Leandro Paredes, Alisson, Juan Jesus set for minutes on Thursday.
Paredes will incur a ban in the Europa League with his next caution.
Match Facts
Villarreal are undefeated in 17 of their last 19 matches in UEFA Europa League.
Roma are undefeated in their last 6 UEFA Europa League matches.
As at this post Villarreal CF has 2.55 odd to win the match on Naija and Bet while AS Roma has 2.79 has odd to win the match also, while the odd to draw the match is 3.15.
How will this Match end?