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Roma vs Real Madrid: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

Real Madrid return to Rome for the first time since 2018 to face Roma at the Stadio Olimpico, marking the Italian side’s return to the Champions League stage. Under the guidance of Gian Piero Gasperini, Roma secured a third-place finish in Serie A last season and are now contenders aiming to challenge Inter Milan for the Scudetto.

Roma remain unbeaten in six Serie A matches, though they had to battle hard for a draw against fellow Champions League qualifier Como, despite losing their top scorer Donyell Malen to a red card. Their European campaign began with a commendable 1–1 draw against Fenerbahçe, while Real Madrid edged Inter Milan 2–1 at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The Mourinho Factor

Wednesday’s encounter carries added significance as José Mourinho returns to the Olimpico, where he led Roma to Conference League glory in 2022 before departing early this year. The home fans are expected to welcome him warmly despite his ties to their rivals.

“It’s always special to come back here,” Mourinho said ahead of the match, reflecting on his time in Rome.

Head-to-Head Insights and Key Milestones

  • Managerial Record: Gasperini has beaten Mourinho twice out of ten encounters, with Mourinho winning five times.
  • Mbappé’s 100th Champions League Appearance: Real Madrid’s No. 9 celebrates his centenary in the competition and can surpass Raúl González to become the fifth-highest scorer.
  • Past Meetings: Real Madrid have won eight out of 12 clashes with Roma, including dominating results on Roman soil where Roma have only one home win against Madrid.

Prediction

We think Real Madrid will edge out Roma in a tight match, forecasting a 2-1 victory for the visitors.

Projected Lineups

  • Goalkeeper: Gollini
  • Defenders: Mancini, Ndicka, Hermoso
  • Midfielders: Rensch, De Roon, Koné, Wesley
  • Forwards: Dybala, Soulé, Malen

Malen’s red card in Serie A doesn’t affect his availability for this match. Roma will miss goalkeeper Mile Svilar and Bryan Cristante due to injury. Mario Hermoso faces a familiar opponent after his time with Atlético Madrid.

  • Goalkeeper: Courtois
  • Defenders: Dumfries, Konaté, Huijsen, Cucurella
  • Midfielders: Valverde, Tchouaméni
  • Attacking Midfielders/Forwards: Diomande, Bellingham, Vinícius Jr
  • Striker: Mbappé

Bernardo Silva and Arda Güler are eligible but may start on the bench. Vinícius Jr. is expected to feature due to his suspension in domestic games. Injuries keep Militão, Mendy, Rodrygo, and Asencio out.

Match Details

  • Location: Rome, Italy
  • Stadium: Stadio Olimpico
  • Date: Wednesday, October 14
  • Kick-off Time: 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. BST
  • Referee: François Letexier (France)
  • VAR Official: Dennis Johan Higler (Netherlands)

Broadcast Information

  • United States: Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, TUDN App, ViX
  • United Kingdom: TNT Sports 4, TNT Sports 10, HBO Max
  • Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
  • Mexico: FOX One, FOX+

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