AS Roma claim big win over Brighton in Europa League

ROME – In a thrilling Europa League showdown on Thursday, AS Roma showcased their prowess with a resounding 4-0 victory against Brighton in the Italian capital, affirming their bid for a spot in the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen battled back from a two-goal deficit to secure a crucial draw against Qarabag, maintaining their unbeaten streak.

Brighton’s European campaign appears to be in jeopardy after a devastating defeat at the hands of Roma.

The Italian giants, under the guidance of legendary former player Daniele De Rossi, have been in stellar form since his appointment, losing just once in 10 games.

De Rossi, humbly downplaying his impact, stated, “I’m not doing anything out of the ordinary. I’m very happy but they’re really good players. They’re winning matches that they should be winning.”

AS Roma players celebrate a goal during the match against Brighton and Hove in a Europa League match played on Thursday 7th March 2024 in Rome, Italy. [Picture via: AS Roma/X] — **FILE:** AS Roma players celebrate a goal during the match against Brighton and Hove in a Europa League match played on Thursday 7th March 2024 in Rome, Italy. **[Picture via: AS Roma/X]**

The match witnessed Paulo Dybala opening the scoring for Roma after a precision pass from Leandro Paredes, followed by Romelu Lukaku capitalizing on an error by Brighton’s Lewis Dunk to secure a comfortable lead before halftime.

Gianluca Mancini and Bryan Cristante further extended Roma’s lead in the second half, sealing Brighton’s fate in the fixture.

However, the night was not without its somber notes, as two Brighton fans were reportedly stabbed in a robbery the night preceding the game.

Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen faced a formidable challenge against Qarabag, finding themselves trailing by two goals before halftime.

Yassine Benzia and a brilliant display from Juninho had the Azeri champions in a commanding position.

Despite Leverkusen’s unbeaten record this season, coach Xabi Alonso opted to rest key players, resulting in a lackluster first-half performance.

However, strategic substitutions breathed new life into the German side, with Florian Wirtz and Patrik Schick finding the net in the final stages to salvage a draw.

The results set the stage for an intriguing second leg, with Roma poised for advancement and Leverkusen determined to secure their spot in the quarter-finals.