Leverkusen's Unbeaten Run Poses Stern Test for Roma

As Roma gears up to face Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League semi-finals, midfielder Leandro Paredes has sounded a cautionary note about the daunting task that lies ahead. The Argentine World Cup winner acknowledges the impressive form of Xabi Alonso’s side, who have remarkably gone unbeaten in all competitions this season.

Speaking to Roma’s social media channels from the club’s training base in Trigoria, Paredes emphasized the strengths of their German opponents. “They have so many strengths,” he said. “They haven’t lost in a year, so as I said, it is going to be a really tough game.”

Roma will host the first leg at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday before traveling to the Rhine area for the return fixture the following week. Leverkusen’s unbeaten run, which stretches back to the previous campaign, has caught the attention of the footballing world, with Paredes’ teammate Daniele De Rossi recently insisting that although they are yet to taste defeat, they are “not unbeatable.”

Paredes, however, appears to be heeding the warning signs, acknowledging the motivation provided by De Rossi’s words. “Everything the coach says motivates us to do better and to keep improving,” he stated. “As I said earlier, we still have room for improvement, and I think we’re doing well in that respect.”

The Roma midfielder’s comments highlight the magnitude of the challenge facing his side as they aim to reach the Europa League final. Leverkusen’s consistency and resilience have been the hallmarks of their campaign, and Roma will need to produce performances of the highest caliber to overcome the German outfit over two legs.

While De Rossi’s assertion that Leverkusen is “not unbeatable” may provide a glimmer of hope, Paredes’ words underscore the respect and caution with which Roma is approaching this tie. The Giallorossi will need to summon all their resources and experience to navigate this stern test and keep their dreams of European glory alive.

As the first leg approaches, the stakes could not be higher for both teams. Roma, buoyed by their home support, will look to establish a solid platform for the return leg, while Leverkusen will aim to maintain their remarkable unbeaten run and take a step closer to the final. The clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Paredes and his teammates well aware of the formidable challenge that lies ahead.