Ranieri warns Roma about ‘aggressive’ Porto | OneFootball

Claudio Ranieri warns his Roma side about an ‘aggressive’ Porto in the Europa League knockout playoff and insists the Giallorossi concede goals because they ‘don’t press well’ with strikers and midfielders.

Roma visit Porto in the first leg of the Europa League knockout playoff on Thursday.

Ranieri previewed the game at a pre-match press conference on Wednesday.

“I asked the guys about things that will remain between us. Porto are a team with excellent ball possession,” said the Italian tactician via TMW.

“They have some very interesting players. We will need to play a great match and not lose focus.

Ranieri warns Roma about ‘aggressive’ Porto

Angelino of Roma makes a run into the penalty area as Mikael Ellertsson of Venezia covers back during the Serie A match between Venezia and AS Roma at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo on February 09, 2025 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

“We have to be super focused. I expect a very aggressive Porto. We know how they play, and we know their options to change the game. We must play with confidence and solidity.

“I want a Roma that plays the same way at home and away. The boys are working hard to do what I ask.

“We concede goals because we don’t press well up front and in midfield,” continued Ranieri.

“When we stay focused on preventing our opponents from counter-attacking, this doesn’t happen, regardless of whether we play with a three- or four-man defence.

“Losing 1-0 or 2-0 doesn’t make much difference unless it’s a European competition. We expect a very aggressive game from Porto.”