Napoli and Portugal full-back Mario Rui insists Roma are “slight underdogs” in tonight’s Champions League clash with FC Porto.
The first leg in the Round of 16 kicks off at 20.00 GMT.
“Lorenzo Pellegrini saying Porto are not a top club is just going to further motivate their players. They have already proved they are world class,” assured Mario Rui on the Bola Branca podcast.
Napoli and Portugal full-back Mario Rui insists Roma are “slight underdogs” in tonight’s Champions League clash with FC Porto.
The first leg in the Round of 16 kicks off at 20.00 GMT.
“Lorenzo Pellegrini saying Porto are not a top club is just going to further motivate their players. They have already proved they are world class,” assured Mario Rui on the Bola Branca podcast.
“In terms of quality, it’ll be a pretty balanced encounter, but I see Porto as slight favourites because they have more pace and stamina. I’d call Roma the underdogs in this tie.
“Roma are a team undergoing renewal, but they also have players like Edin Dzeko, Daniele De Rossi, Aleksandar Kolarov and Kostas Manolas, along with young talents like Nicolò Zaniolo.
“Being without Moussa Marega is a heavy blow for Porto, as he is having such a great campaign, but I hope they won’t miss him too much, as the basic approach won’t change.”