The Europa League knockout stage got off to an electrifying start as Porto vs Roma ended in a hard-fought 1-1 draw at the Estádio do Dragão on February 13, 2025. Both teams had moments of brilliance, setting the stage for an exciting second-leg clash at Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
FULL-TIME: #PORASR #PORROM #UEL pic.twitter.com/rnVy9VlglN
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) February 13, 2025
Roma Strikes First Before Halftime
The opening stages saw both teams cautiously feeling each other out, with Roma slightly edging possession. The breakthrough came just before halftime when Zeki Çelik found the net with a clinical finish. A precise cross from Lorenzo Pellegrini was met by Çelik, who slotted the ball past Porto’s keeper, sending the visiting fans into a frenzy.
This goal was a testament to Roma’s well-organized attacking play, as they capitalized on Porto’s defensive gaps and punished them with a swift counter-attack.
Porto’s Resilient Comeback in the Second Half
Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Porto emerged from the tunnel with renewed energy. They pressed forward aggressively, testing Roma’s defense with rapid counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities.
The breakthrough came in the 67th minute, when Francisco Moura fired a shot that took a deflection off a Roma defender. The sudden change in trajectory wrong-footed Mile Svilar, and the ball nestled into the back of the net, leveling the score at 1-1.
The goal ignited the home crowd, and Porto pushed for a late winner, but Roma’s defense held firm.
Cristante’s Red Card Shifts the Momentum
The game took another dramatic turn in the 72nd minute, when Bryan Cristante received his second yellow card for a tactical foul on Stephen Eustáquio. The Roma midfielder’s dismissal forced his team into a defensive stance, fending off Porto’s relentless pressure in the closing stages.
Despite being a man down, Roma defended resolutely, ensuring they held onto the draw and returned to Rome with a fighting chance.
Porto vs Roma: Key Performances and Tactical Takeaways
- Francisco Moura (Porto): His relentless energy and key goal kept Porto in the tie.
- Zeki Çelik (Roma): A clinical finish and strong defensive contributions.
- Mile Svilar (Roma Goalkeeper): Made crucial saves to keep Porto from snatching a late winner.
- Bryan Cristante (Roma Midfielder): A solid display before his unfortunate sending-off.
From a tactical standpoint, Roma’s compact defensive shape worked well in the first half, but Porto’s high-pressing game in the second half eventually broke them down.
What’s Next? The Second-Leg Showdown in Rome
With everything to play for, the two sides will face off again on February 20, 2025, at the Stadio Olimpico.
- Roma will look to exploit their home advantage while ensuring they keep all 11 men on the field.
- Porto, on the other hand, will be confident knowing they’ve already breached Roma’s defense once and could do it again.
Fans can expect a thrilling and high-stakes battle as these two European giants fight for a place in the next round of the Europa League.
