# Roma 3–1 Real Madrid: Giallorossi Secure Statement Champions League Victory
Roma defeated Real Madrid 3–1 at the Stadio Olimpico on 14 October in a Champions League league-phase fixture that vindicated Gian Piero Gasperini's aggressive tactical approach against one of Europe's elite sides. Marten de Roon broke the deadlock with a powerful effort from the edge of the box in the 20th minute, but Kylian Mbappé equalised five minutes later after capitalising on an error from Mario Hermoso. Roma regained control in the second half, with Donyell Malen restoring the lead at 51 minutes and extending it to 3–1 at 57 minutes following a VAR review that confirmed Matías Soulé's assist left him in a legal position. Pierluigi Gollini started in goal with Mile Svilar unavailable through injury, whilst Roma lost Manu Koné to a muscular problem after 15 minutes, with Niccolò Pisilli entering as his replacement. Rodrigo Mora came on at half-time to replace Paulo Dybala, who departed due to a muscular strain.
José Mourinho, who managed Roma from 2021 to 2024 and won the club's 2022 Europa Conference League title, returned to the Olimpico as Real Madrid's manager for the first time since his departure. The fixture carried profound emotional weight: the Curva Sud displayed tributes reading "Who brings glory to Roma, Roma will honour forever," whilst the Tevere stand unfurled a banner stating "For the special world… for immortal Roma… Ave Mou!" Before kickoff, approximately 67,000 supporters packed the stadium. Mourinho acknowledged the difficulty of managing his emotions whilst remaining focused on competition, saying "For ninety minutes we are opponents" but that his heart would race before and after the encounter. Francesco Totti attended as a special guest invited by the club. Real Madrid made changes during the second half, introducing Arda Güler and Endrick at 58 minutes, with Bernardo Silva replacing Aurélien Tchouaméni at 70 minutes.
The victory represented a significant statement for Roma's European campaign. French referee François Letexier oversaw the fixture, with VAR handled by the Dutch team comprising Dennis Higler and van Boekel. Roma had opened their Champions League league phase with a 1–1 draw away at Fenerbahçe, whilst Real Madrid won their opener 2–1 at home against Inter. Gianluca Mancini received a caution for fouling Mbappé at 59 minutes, and Wesley was booked at 69 minutes.
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