
Roma Primavera held by Empoli; Scala laments missed opportunity
Roma Primavera drew 1–1 with Empoli at Tre Fontane in a result that disappointed head coach Scala. Camara gave Roma an early lead, but Empoli equalised from a penalty by Perin before half-time, and the scoreline remained unchanged in the second half. The result leaves Roma second in the Primavera standings on 12 points, level with both Empoli and Bologna but two points behind Inter at the top. Scala acknowledged Empoli's qualities but was critical of his side's intensity. "There are also the merits of Empoli," he said. "They have never lost so far. They are an orderly team in the defensive phase and tried to attack us in transition. They had their merits, but we were too far below our usual level. I did not see that fighting spirit and that football poison we need to win matches, which in other situations has helped us bring home results. That must be the foundation for achieving any result and to grow both individually and collectively." Scala rejected the notion that proximity to a forthcoming UEFA Youth League match against Real Madrid had affected the performance. "No, only this match was important. We knew that with a win we could go top of the table and that would have given us even more confidence and strength ahead of the Youth League game. But we were focused only on Empoli." He stressed the need to move forward quickly: "We have to reset and also learn from these poor matches to improve and grow. Starting with Wednesday's match, which we must face at our best."








