Claudio Ranieri: "Facing Athletic is an Exciting Challenge"
Today's UEFA Europa League Round of 16 draw, held at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, set up an intriguing clash between AS Roma and Athletic Club from Bilbao. The Italian side, featuring Ukrainian forward Artem Dovbyk, will face the Basque giants in what promises to be one of the most compelling ties of the round.
Roma head coach Claudio Ranieri shared his thoughts on the draw:
"Playing against Athletic is one of the most exciting challenges in football. I've faced them several times while coaching in Spain, and playing at their stadium—steeped in history and passion—is never easy. They are a very strong team, but we will give everything to advance in the tournament."
The first leg will take place on March 6 at Stadio Olimpico, while the return fixture is set for March 13 at San Mamés in Bilbao.
The winner of the Roma vs. Athletic tie will progress to the quarter-finals, where they will face the victor of the Fenerbahçe vs. Rangers encounter.
