Roma’s European disappointment has not altered the sense that Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are building something substantial. The defeat to Real Madrid stung, particularly after 82 minutes in which the Giallorossi had matched one of Europe’s leading teams, but the immediate task is to turn that frustration into momentum when Genoa arrive under Daniele De Rossi.
Roma take the positives from a costly European finish
The final seven minutes against Real Madrid changed the result and the mood, yet they did not erase the authority Roma had shown for most of the evening at the Olimpico. The team played with personality, intensity and a clearer collective identity, giving further weight to their ambitions in Serie A.
Roma had already surrendered top spot after drawing with Como, and the league now offers Gasperini’s group a quick chance to respond. The coach wants the squad to leave behind the Champions League ending without losing the conviction drawn from the preceding 82 minutes.
- Roma produced a composed and competitive display against Real Madrid for 82 minutes.
- The closing seven minutes brought the decisive setback, denying the Giallorossi a result they believed they deserved.
- Attention has now moved to the league fixture against Genoa, with Gasperini seeking an immediate reaction despite absences in his squad.
- Roma hope to regain the summit they lost following the draw with Como and reinforce their place in the Scudetto contest.
Wesley sets the tone on the right
Wesley was among the clearest symbols of Roma’s performance against Real Madrid. Used in his natural role on the right, the Brazilian covered the flank relentlessly, providing both forward thrust and defensive work.
Comparisons with Cafu remain a considerable burden for any Brazilian full-back, but Wesley showed the quality and confidence required for a major European occasion. Marc Cucurella spent much of the match occupied by defensive duties and was unable to make his usual attacking contribution, while Vinicius also struggled to find room.
José Mourinho was impressed by what he saw from close range. “I already knew he was a strong player, but seeing him in person is something else,” he said to TNT Sports.
Wesley himself accepted the value of his individual display while making clear that the team result came first.
“I was ready and I liked my game,” he said. “There are still many areas where I need to improve, but I am pleased with my individual performance. I cannot be happy with the match, though, because we deserved to win.”
Endrick’s decisive intervention and the Genoa response
Roma’s hopes were also damaged by Endrick, Wesley’s fellow Brazilian, who came on to provide an assist and score. Wesley spoke warmly of his friend’s impact and did not hide his admiration.
“He entered the match and delivered an assist and a goal,” Wesley said. “I have complete respect for him. That boy is special and I support him.”
For Roma, however, admiration must give way to a rapid return to domestic work. The defeat has supplied a painful reminder of how quickly a European night can turn, but it has also offered evidence of the level Gasperini’s side can reach. Against De Rossi’s Genoa, they intend to show that the long spell of control against Real Madrid, rather than the late collapse, is the truer image of their season.
