Roma greeted by legionnaires in Newport as Gasperini seeks response

Mario Hermoso scored to give Roma a 1–0 victory over Newport County in a pre-season friendly during the club's Welsh training camp on 4 August. The result comes after two disappointing warm-up matches: Roma conceded three goals in a comeback loss to Cannes and suffered a 4–1 defeat to Cardiff. Gasperini's squad faces the second stage of the Welsh retreat with this victory marking a turnaround in form during the pre-season schedule. The match entered its second half with Roma already ahead through Hermoso's goal.

Mario Hermoso put Roma ahead in the 38th minute during their second pre-season friendly in Wales against Newport County at Rodney Parade. Bryan Cristante recovered possession to launch the move, then found Hermoso with the help of a deflection off Castro, with the Spanish defender finishing from close range to settle the opening period at 1–0. Gasperini's side began slowly but grew into the match. Mile Svilar made a vital save in the 14th minute to deny Doidge after the Newport forward was left unmarked, while Paulo Dybala and Castro posed occasional threats in attack. Newport threatened early through Biggins, whose long-range effort struck the crossbar in the 4th minute, but Roma's defence gradually tightened. The friendly served as a fitness-building exercise during the Wales training camp. Donyell Malen was absent through fever. Gasperini made a tactical adjustment in the 36th minute, switching Wesley to the right flank and Devyne Rensch to the left. Jenkins received a booking for Newport in the 40th minute. The match was officiated by Martin, with Tweson-Morris and Hooper as assistants.

Newport is preparing an elaborate welcome for Roma ahead of their fixture at the Welsh club's stadium. The town is in celebratory mood, with Newport laying on a full hospitality package to honour Gasperini's side. The club has arranged yellow-and-red scarves, a commemorative shirt dedicated to Roma, and specially made stickers for the occasion. Nearly 10,000 seats are expected to be sold out. Roma's visit represents one of the most significant fixtures in Newport's recent history. The Welsh club is determined to ensure everything runs smoothly for what they see as a major occasion. Club staff and supporters alike are preparing an atmosphere befitting the occasion, with flags and banners visible around the stadium and throughout the town. The fixture promises to be a celebration rather than a contest, with organisers emphasising the festive nature of the event. The stadium setup and local preparations underscore the importance Newport attaches to welcoming one of European football's established sides.