Leicester vs Roma: preview of Europa Conference League semifinal
By Damon Carter
It seems to get said too often at Leicester City, but the upcoming game could be one of the biggest in their recent history. For the first time ever they will host a European semi-final against Italian giants AS Roma. So what can the Foxes faithful expect from Jose Mourinho’s Romans.
Conference League is a priority
UEFA was mocked when creating this third-tier European competition, but now, like the King Power outfit, Roma will be putting all their eggs into this one basket. They currently sit eight points behind fourth placed Juventus, meaning little chance of Champions League football. Although, the Italians do have a better chance of making Europe through their league position than their East Midlands opponents, this game is important for different reasons.
Silverware has eluded the Yellows and Reds since 2008 so they will be hoping to make this their first trophy since 1961. That was when they defeated a different Midlands team in blue in the form of Birmingham City.
Jose Mourinho is seemingly the perfect foil to achieve this with his own managerial record in Europe heralding two Champions Leagues and two Europa League/UEFA Cups. In contrast, this is new territory for Brendan Rodgers with his furthest foray into Europe as a manager being only as far as Round of 32. The experience of the bosses could be key to the way this tie is decided.