The hosts’ pressing could stop the favorite: Roma vs Real Madrid prediction
The second-round clash of the Champions League league phase between Roma and Real Madrid will take place on October 14, 2026, at the Olimpico in Rome. The Romans opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against «Fenerbahçe», while the Madrid side beat «Inter» 2-1.
Roma: a strong start and aggressive pressing
The Rome club are still unbeaten in the current Serie A season, recording four wins and two draws. The team is also posting impressive attacking numbers: 26 big chances and 17.24 xG, while conceding just three goals at the other end.
Roma’s main weapon remains their high press. Their PPDA of 8.89 confirms the intensity of their pressure, while the team leads the Italian top flight for shots after high turnovers. The absence of first-choice goalkeeper Mile Svilar will be a problem, with Pierluigi Gollini expected to deputize once again.
Real Madrid: the results are there, but the quality of play is inconsistent
After losing 2-1 to «Atlético», José Mourinho’s side quickly bounced back with a 1-0 win over «Villarreal». However, problems with playing out from the back, pressing and finishing remain evident.
Dean Huijsen returns from suspension, while Vinícius is expected to start after being rested in the league. At the same time, the Madrid side continue to underperform in front of goal: 21 goals from 24 xG, along with 31 missed big chances.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- «Roma» have not lost any of their six Serie A matches.
- The Romans have conceded just three goals in the league.
- «Real Madrid» have scored 21 goals from 24 xG and recorded 31 missed big chances.
The Romans’ pressure could disrupt the visitors’ game: Roma vs Real Madrid prediction
«Roma» look organized enough to prevent the Madrid side from playing out freely through short passing. The hosts’ high press could make it extremely difficult for «Real Madrid» to build their attacks, especially given their current struggles in this phase of play.
At the same time, the Madrid side possess immense individual quality and are sure to find space in behind the opposition defense. However, their poor finishing and Roma’s solid form make a draw a highly logical outcome.
