The significance of the match for Roma goes beyond simply bouncing back from their recent loss or improving their position in the group. The "Wolves" have an additional historical motivation: chasing record milestones in this competition, where they carry a rich legacy.

Rome’s Stadio Olimpico will transform into a decisive battleground at 10 PM on Thursday, as Italian club Roma hosts Czech side Viktoria Plzeň in the third round of the 2025-2026 Europa League.

This clash is far from a routine group stage game under the competition’s new format; it is a “dignity test” for the Wolves and their experienced coach, Gian Gasperini, entering the match with fresh wounds from the previous round.

The Nightmare of the “Three Penalties” Roma faces a psychological shock more than a sporting one. In Round Two, the team suffered a surprising and painful defeat to French side Lille. Yet, it was not the loss itself that drew attention, but the historical mishap: for the first time in European competitions, Lille’s goalkeeper, Perkki Özer, saved three consecutive penalties from Roma players. This wasn’t just a missed opportunity for points—it reflected a mental and moral collapse at critical moments, putting immense pressure on Gasperini and his squad.

Tonight’s match against Viktoria Plzeň offers a chance for redemption in front of the Olimpico fans, proving that the setback in France was only a temporary stumble and that Roma possess the mental resilience to bounce back.

Czech Ambition Threatening Italian Pride In contrast, Viktoria Plzeň enters the match with high morale and confidence. The Czech side began their Europa League campaign perfectly, securing a solid win in their first match and drawing their second.

This strong start has placed Viktoria Plzeň in a comfortable position. Under the new group stage system, the team sits eighth overall with 4 points—a spot that directly positions them for advancement. Roma, however, is 15th with only 3 points from a single win, a ranking unworthy of the Italian club and placing them in a precarious position. Viktoria Plzeň knows Roma is “wounded” and uncertain, aiming to exploit this to grab a positive result in the heart of the Italian capital, whether a draw or even a win, to strengthen their standing in the group.

Chasing the 99th Victory The match’s importance for Roma is not just about recovering from the last defeat or climbing the group table. The Wolves also have a historic drive: pursuing milestones in this competition, which carries a significant legacy for the club.

By winning at home tonight in front of their supporters, Roma aims to secure their 99th victory in Europa League history (under both its old and new names). Approaching this milestone serves as a major morale boost for the players to give their all.

Gasperini understands that any further slip, especially at the Olimpico, could plunge the team into a spiral of doubt difficult to escape and threaten their European campaign early. Victory is the only option to restore confidence, silence critics, and continue writing history in their favorite competition.