Bayer Leverkusen host Roma on Thursday knowing their way to the Europa League final goes through Jose Mourinho's expertly parked bus. Mourinho's Roma hold a narrow 1-0 lead heading into the second leg of their semi-final tie, having blunted Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso's attacking riches in Rome. Roma held Leverkusen scoreless for the first time in this Europa League campaign. Winless in five league fixtures, sixth-placed Roma also have fallen out of Champions League contention. While Mourinho has managed some incredible attacking talents during his career, including at Roma, the side's run through the Europa League has had a heavy defensive focus.

Source: The Express Tribune May 18, 2023 00:51 UTC