Shomurodov’s Dramatic Finish Secures Narrow Victory for Roma Against 10-Man Athletic Bilbao in First Leg

Goals from Angelino and Eldor Shomurodov propelled AS Roma to a narrow first-leg victory in their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 clash against Athletic Club. The Giallorossi’s 2-1 win marks their seventh consecutive match without defeat in all competitions (W6, D1).

As two established teams in the Europa League era, Roma welcomed their Basque rivals with the aim of breaking their head-to-head stalemate (D2).

However, the hosts faced an uphill battle as Athletic surged forward right from the beginning, with Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta and Unai Gomez both posing early threats, though neither could find the back of the net.

It was Niccolo Pisilli who finally registered Roma’s first shot, but his effort from just inside the box was met with a block.

Julen Agirrezabala was forced to deal with the first shot on target, but he had little trouble gathering an innocuous effort from Artem Dovbyk, who had created the opportunity with an impressive solo run.

The contest continued with both sides vying for possession and opportunities, but neither could break the deadlock before the interval. Paulo Dybala came close when he received a pass in the box and curled a shot past Mile Svilar, only to see his strike rebound off the woodwork.

Athletic struck first at the beginning of the second half, with Aitor Paredes’ misplaced header being pounced on by Inaki Williams, who was positioned at the back post.

However, the lead was short-lived as Zeki Celik made a swift run down the right side of the box and delivered a cut-back for Angelino, who made no mistake in firing past Agirrezabala.

The visitors maintained the upper hand for much of the half, with Nico Williams and Unai Gómez both seeing their attempts thwarted by Roma’s defence as they sought to regain their advantage.

Just when it appeared the match would finish level, the hosts snatched a late winner. Alexis Saelemaekers fed Shomurodov in the box, and the striker swiftly turned to send a low shot past Agirrezabala.

This crucial goal gives Roma the edge as they head to San Sebastian for the second leg, leaving Athletic with a significant task ahead if they wish to prolong their European journey.

Check out all the match stats here.