Shomurodov’s Dramatic Late Goal Secures Roma’s Narrow Victory Over 10-Man Athletic Club in First Leg

Goals from Angelino and Eldor Shomurodov ensured AS Roma secured a first-leg lead in their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 clash against Athletic Club. This 2-1 victory continues Roma’s impressive unbeaten streak across all competitions, now sitting at seven matches (W6, D1).

As two frequent participants in the Europa League, Roma faced their Basque rivals with the aim of breaking their deadlock in previous encounters (D2).

The home team was challenged from the outset as Athletic burst into the game, hoping for a quick goal. Early attempts from Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta and Unai Gomez threatened, but neither could convert.

Niccolo Pisilli eventually registered Roma’s first attempt, but the young Italian’s shot from just inside the box was blocked.

Julen Agirrezabala then faced the first shot on target, easily gathering a weak effort from Artem Dovbyk after the Ukrainian had made an impressive individual run.

The competition for possession continued, with both teams eager to convert their opportunities, yet neither could breach the opposing defence before the break.

Paulo Dybala was close to giving Roma the lead when he found space in the box and curled a shot that beat Mile Svilar, only to see it bounce off the crossbar.

Athletic struck first at the beginning of the second half, with Inaki Williams taking advantage of a poor header from Aitor Paredes to slot home from close range.

However, Roma equalised shortly after through Zeki Celik, who surged down the right flank and set up Angelino for a clinical finish past Agirrezabala.

The visitors appeared more dangerous as the half progressed, with Nico Williams and Unai Gómez both having their attempts thwarted by resolute defending as they sought to reclaim the lead.

Just when it seemed the match would end in a stalemate, the hosts snatched a late winner as Alexis Saelemaekers found Shomurodov in the box, and the striker turned swiftly to dispatch a low shot beyond Agirrezabala.

With this late goal, Roma holds the upper hand heading into the second leg in San Sebastian next week, leaving Athletic with much to do if they wish to continue their European campaign.

Catch all the match stats here.