VfB Stuttgart take on AS Roma away at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening on Matchday 7 of the league phase of the UEFA Europa League (kick-off 21:00 CET).
Hoeneß full of praise
Sebastian Hoeneß’s side are determined to take a step towards the last 16 in Rome, but are aware it will be no easy task against a home side level on 12 points in the league phase table. VfB are ninth, one rung higher than their Italian hosts by virtue of their superior goal difference. If either of the teams can secure a top-eight finish, they will avoid a two-legged knockout phase play-off tie and go straight into the round of 16.
“Both teams want to reach the knockout stage so I’m expecting a fiery, intense game,” said Hoeneß. “Roma are one of the best teams in the Europa League. They play with maturity and composure, and are also very streetwise.”
The VfB tactician also had words of praise for his opposite number: “Gian Piero Gasperini is an excellent coach, he’s put his stamp on the team in a very short space of time.” The 67-year-old previously held the reins at Atalanta, with whom he defeated VfB in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League season.
So how will VfB go about exacting a measure of revenge? “We’ll need a good balance between an attacking approach full of creativity, and defensive stability,” said Hoeneß, who was understandably giving nothing away with regards to his starting line-up, even if a few absentees are already known.
El Khannouss suspended, Stiller doubtful
Bilal El Khannouss is suspended due to yellow card accumulation, while Lazar Jovanovic (back) and Tiago Tomás (muscular) are out injured. There is a question mark surrounding Angelo Stiller, and the game comes too soon for Luca Jaquez and Dan-Axel Zagadou as they continue to work their way back to full fitness.
