# Roma Draw 1–1 with Fenerbahçe in Champions League Return
Roma returned to the UEFA Champions League for the first time in seven years on 10 September, drawing 1–1 away at Fenerbahçe in Istanbul in the opening match of the competition's new league phase. Bryan Cristante gave Roma the lead in the first half with a long-range strike, but the Giallorossi conceded almost immediately after the restart when Fenerbahçe's Brown capitalised on a defensive lapse to level the match. The result leaves Roma with one point from their opening fixture.
Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini fielded a three-man defence of Gianluca Mancini, Evan N'Dicka and Mario Hermoso, with Wesley and Devyne Rensch operating as wing-backs. Bryan Cristante and Manu Koné anchored midfield, while Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen led the attack with Matías Soulé in the attacking midfield role. Gasperini made three substitutions in the 74th minute, bringing on Leonardo Balerdi, Nahuel Molina and Rodrigo Mora. Mile Svilar made crucial saves to keep Roma in the contest. The match was controlled by Roma, who dominated possession at 58 per cent to Fenerbahçe's 42 per cent, though they failed to build on their first-half advantage. Fenerbahçe created the clearer chances after equalising, with a header from Akè striking the crossbar late on.
The draw has secured €50.09 million in Champions League revenue for Roma so far this season, according to Calcio e Finanza. Qualification alone granted €18.62 million, with their current league-phase position contributing at least €275,000, and the draw adding €700,000. The largest component comes from the value pillar, contributing €30.49 million to the club's coffers. Gasperini acknowledged Roma's second-half vulnerability but praised the overall performance and the point secured away from home in a hostile environment. Several radio commentators viewed the result as acceptable, though opinion divided on whether Roma should have won. The draw marks a solid foundation for Roma's European campaign, though the manager acknowledged the need for greater focus when transitioning from a compact defensive shape.
AI synthesis of all sources below — always check the originals.
