Roma return to the Champions League after seven years to face Real Madrid tonight at the Stadio Olimpico in a matchup between contrasting tactical philosophies. Gian Piero Gasperini's Roma will pit their high-pressing, attacking approach against José Mourinho's Real Madrid, with former Roma player Vincent Candela expressing confidence the hosts will trouble Europe's elite. Multiple Roman commentators back Roma's chances, citing weaknesses in Madrid's defence—the Spanish side has conceded eight goals in seven La Liga matches this season—and the quality of Gasperini's squad in attack, which will field Donyell Malen, Paulo Dybala and Alejandro Garnacho in the forward line.
Candela acknowledged the tactical contrast between the two managers: "They are two great, winning coaches, different in how they approach the match. Mourinho is again coaching great Real Madrid, but Gasperini has the squad with him in a moment of confidence in attack and in defence. Gasperini will not change his tactics, he will play high and pressing." He expressed personal preference for Gasperini's style while recognising Mourinho's pedigree, calling it "a very different match, but special." Radio pundits in Rome reinforced the assessment, with one telling Radio Radio that "Real Madrid seems very beatable to me right now" and another noting that "when Gasperini faces Real, he keeps his identity and manages to create difficulty for them." Gianluca Mancini, drawing on experience as both a former Roma player and Inter player under Mourinho, backed Roma if they bring sufficient intensity, stating that "Gasp's style of play can put the Spanish in crisis."
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