Panathinaikos vs Roma: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – January 29, 2026
One of the matches of the final round of the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League group stage will take place on Thursday at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, where Greek side Panathinaikos will host Italian powerhouse Roma. I’m tipping the total goals market in this clash, with solid odds for success.
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Match preview
Panathinaikos have already secured a playoff spot, but the team has no chance of breaking into the top 8. Still, Rafael Benítez’s men will aim to finish the group stage on a high note, especially given their strong home form—five wins in their last seven European matches in Athens. While they suffered two defeats in the group, they showed real grit with draws against Ferencváros and previously beat teams like Genk and Ludogorets.
The experienced Spanish coach quickly got the Greeks organized after his appointment in the autumn. Despite inconsistent results in the domestic league, where Panathinaikos trail the leaders by a wide margin, their performances in Europe have been far more disciplined and combative. Against Roma, the hosts will be motivated not just by their opponent’s stature, but also by history: the Greeks defeated the Romans twice in 2010 and have never lost to them.
Roma are on course for a direct place in the Europa League round of 16 and need just a single point in Athens to secure it. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side have won their last four group matches, keeping a clean sheet against Stuttgart and scoring twice. Defensively, the Giallorossi have been solid as well—just 13 goals conceded in 22 Serie A games.
On the road, Roma operate with discipline and pragmatism. Given their squad issues—including injuries to Dovbyk and Dybala, suspensions, and transfer restrictions—their focus will be on core team chemistry and tactical flexibility. While the battle for Champions League qualification in Serie A is heating up, this Europa League campaign is a genuine shot at international silverware, especially with Gasperini’s proven pedigree—he previously lifted the trophy with Atalanta.
Probable lineups
- Panathinaikos: Lafont, Calabria, Ingason, Touba, Kyriakopoulos, Sanchez, Gnezda Cerin, Pellistri, Bakasetas, Zaroury, Tetteh
- Roma: Svilar, Mancini, Ziolkowski, Gilardi, Celik, Cristante, Pisilli, Tsimikas, Sule, Pellegrini, Ferguson
Match facts and head-to-head
- In their two meetings in 2010, Panathinaikos defeated Roma twice, both times by a 3-2 scoreline.
- Roma have won four consecutive Europa League matches.
- Panathinaikos have claimed five wins in their last seven European home games.
Prediction
This promises to be a tense tactical battle, as a draw suits both sides. Roma will look to control the tempo, minimize mistakes, and secure the required result. The Greeks will play boldly with home support behind them, but are unlikely to take big risks. The logical bet here is under 2.5 goals at 1.88.
