Roma’s first win in Europe came against Nice, with the team dominating throughout and only suffering in the final minutes after Pisilli conceded a penalty. Gian Piero Gasperini enjoyed the victory, even if he criticized those who came on in the second half. “It’s difficult to shoot at our goal, that’s one of our strengths,” said Gasp. “We were managing well, then there was that unfortunate incident (the penalty caused by Pisilli, ed.). It was a ball that had gone out and we gave our opponents new energy. But my players’ performance was top-level. I don’t like endings; those who come on have to give something extra because games are decided in the final minutes. In modern soccer, you need 4-5 substitutions, and today they didn’t go well. Certain incidents must be avoided; the penalty was naive, and I feel sorry for Pisilli. At the European level, you have to gain experience quickly.” However, the balance sheet is clear: four wins in five games despite the absences. “We have a solid and competitive core, but we need to integrate it,” the coach reiterates. “The boys need to learn from certain players and follow in their footsteps. For a couple of months now, I’ve realized that some players are of a high standard.”

PELLEGRINI—  Pellegrini’s entrance was decisive. Gasp explains why he didn’t start: “He has undoubted quality, just look at how he took the corner that led to the goal. He hadn’t fully recovered after the derby, as he hadn’t played for many months.” The only sour note comes from the attack, with reference to Dovbyk and Ferguson: “But it’s the whole offensive phase that needs to improve; pointing the finger at the center forward isn’t fair. Dovbyk is improving athletically, we all need to improve our final pass to put the strikers in a position to do well.“ Tsimikas’ debut, on the other hand, was positive: ”He and Angelino are two excellent options, both have great footwork. They kick very well, they’re not versatile and I’ll have to rotate them. But they’re two reliable players.”