Roma's Malen and De Roon shine in nightmare finish against Real Madrid

Real Madrid won 4-3 against Roma on 14 October in a match that carried special significance for José Mourinho, who returned to Stadio Olimpico as an opponent for the first time since his spell in charge of the club. Roma supporters demonstrated their affection for the former manager with dedicated banners honouring him throughout an intense encounter. After the final whistle, Mourinho greeted three Roma players — Gianluca Mancini, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Paulo Dybala — in conversation in the plaza outside Stadio Olimpico near the team coaches.

Donyell Malen scored twice in Roma's Champions League opening night at the Olimpico, but a late goal from Rudiger denied the Giallorossi victory. The Dutch forward's brace was a standout performance despite the 1–1 draw, continuing his prolific European form since arriving in the capital. Malen's impact has been devastating across European competition. According to Opta data, only two players have scored more goals than him since his arrival: Harry Kane with 38 goals and Raphinha with 24. Malen now stands on 23 goals, a tally that underlines his ability to perform at the highest level. He proved capable of making a difference even against Real Madrid, despite the late disappointment. Malen will miss Roma's next fixture against Genoa due to suspension following his red card at Como. However, the forward is already looking ahead to his next opportunity to make an impact, with a trip to the San Paolo stadium (the Maradona) on the horizon. He aims to leave the Como dismissal behind him and deliver another starring performance.

Wesley was among Roma's brightest performers in the match against Real Madrid, earning praise from José Mourinho, who said: "I knew he was strong, but seeing him up close is another thing." The Brazilian defender spoke to TNT Sports Brasil after the match, reflecting on his individual performance and the team's missed opportunity. "I'm happy, it's nice to receive a compliment from a coach like Mourinho," Wesley said. When asked about his individual display, Wesley expressed satisfaction with his personal contribution while emphasizing disappointment at the overall result. "We deserved to win," he stated. He detailed his preparation for the match and his focus on his opposing number, explaining: "I was telling myself I have to stop Vinícius, I have to stop Vinícius. I was prepared and happy with my match. I still have a lot to improve in many aspects, but I'm satisfied with my individual performance. However, I'm not satisfied with the team result, because we deserved to win." Wesley also revealed details of his pre-match conversation with Gasperini. The manager told him: "I'll put you on Vinícius. I have confidence in you." Wesley responded: "Okay, let's go. Let's see what happens." He remarked on the shift in Real Madrid's attack: "To Vinícius I said, 'Today you'll deal with me. Go to the other side and see what you can do.' But then Vinícius came off and Endrick came on, who with all respect scored a goal and an assist. He's a special kid, destined for greatness, and I support him. Obviously not today, but there's little to be done about that."

Roma hosted Real Madrid in a Champions League fixture at the Olimpico featuring a tactical contest that saw the giallorossi control the game for the opening hour before succumbing to late changes by José Mourinho. Gasperini deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation with Matías Soulé replacing Lorenzo Pellegrini, Wesley at right-back and Nahuel Molina on the left, while Madrid operated in a 4-2-3-1. Roma's intensity and two-touch football allowed them to dominate territorially and recover possession effectively through midfield pressure from Manu Koné and Marten de Roon. The giallorossi created multiple chances with striking ease and took a deserved lead through a goal that emerged from Paulo Dybala's sliding recovery challenge, exemplifying their determination throughout the opening period. Real Madrid's defensive structure was described as poor, with Kylian Mbappé creating danger through quick transitions despite the hosts' superior control. Roma doubled their advantage early in the second half when Rodrigo Mora set up Donyell Malen for a second goal, with Koné again instrumental in winning the ball in midfield. The lead lasted only briefly, however, before Real Madrid equalised—Mario Hermoso's poor clearance in a duel allowing Mbappé to punish the error. Koné departed injured and was replaced by Niccolò Pisilli, while Dybala also left the pitch injured. Despite these setbacks, Roma extended their lead to 2–0 approaching the hour mark, appearing to have secured a prestigious victory. The tactical balance rested on Roma's compact midfield aggression and Madrid's reliance on immediate transition and direct passes to their pacy attackers Vinícius and another forward. Mourinho responded with aggressive substitutions, introducing Eder Endrich and Arda Guler for Dumfries and an ineffective Vinícius, shifting Valverde to right-back, and later bringing in Jude Bellingham—referred to in the text as Silva—for Aurélien Tchouaméni, followed by Alejandro Balde and Carlos Espiñeira for Álvaro Cucurella and Maba Diomande. Fresh Roma changes saw Pellegrini replace Soulé and Leonardo Balerdi come on for the cautioned Gianluca Mancini. Madrid pressed relentlessly as Roma struggled to maintain defensive solidity, eventually conceding three times from set pieces near the corner flag—described as an "incredible" and "bewitched" match that delivered Mourinho's side a dramatic late victory. Both managers acknowledged the match featured two distinct contests in one fixture, with the stronger side emerging victorious at the final whistle despite Roma's earlier dominance. Koné and Dybala's injuries marked a significant cost to Roma's effort on the evening.

José Mourinho encountered three of his former Roma players after the 3–4 draw between Roma and Real Madrid on Thursday, 15 October 2026. Gianluca Mancini, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Paulo Dybala spoke with Mourinho in the plaza outside Stadio Olimpico near the team coaches at the end of a particularly significant evening for the Special One, who returned to the capital as an opponent. The meeting underscored the enduring connection between Mourinho and the club he managed during his time in Rome. The encounter took place in the immediate aftermath of a dramatic fixture that delivered plenty for both sides to reflect on. In the ratings published by five daily newspapers covering the match, Donyell Malen emerged as Roma's highest-rated performer with an average of 7.60. Matías Soulé followed with 7.10 and Wesley with 7.00, while Marten de Roon closed at 6.80. Leonardo Balerdi received the lowest average rating at 5.10. Among the starting players, Nahuel Molina posted the lowest average mark at 5.20, followed by Mario Hermoso at 5.30 and Pierluigi Gollini at 5.50.

Roma delivered an almost perfect performance against Real Madrid for 80 minutes but collapsed late in the match, conceding a goal to Rudiger in a defeat that left much to regret. The display showcased the quality the team possesses, yet the harsh reality of football meant that merit did not translate to points. Gasperini has instilled a different mentality at Roma. The side now understands its capabilities and knows it can compete with any opponent. A telling detail emerged after De Roon's goal: while every other player celebrated, Gasperini remained unmoved, offering instructions to each teammate who passed him and reminding them of mistakes made up to that moment. That winning mentality sustained Roma for 80 minutes. A late blackout is concerning but not decisive. Roma will recover, and with Gasperini in charge, the club can look ahead with confidence.

Donyell Malen scored twice in Roma's Champions League opening night at the Olimpico, but a late goal from Rudiger denied the Giallorossi victory. The Dutch forward's brace was a standout performance despite the 1–1 draw, continuing his prolific European form since arriving in the capital. Malen's impact has been devastating across European competition. According to Opta data, only two players have scored more goals than him since his arrival: Harry Kane with 38 goals and Raphinha with 24. Malen now stands on 23 goals, a tally that underlines his ability to perform at the highest level. He proved capable of making a difference even against Real Madrid, despite the late disappointment. Malen will miss Roma's next fixture against Genoa due to suspension following his red card at Como. However, the forward is already looking ahead to his next opportunity to make an impact, with a trip to the San Paolo stadium (the Maradona) on the horizon. He aims to leave the Como dismissal behind him and deliver another starring performance.

Roma hosted Real Madrid in a Champions League fixture at the Olimpico featuring a tactical contest that saw the giallorossi control the game for the opening hour before succumbing to late changes by José Mourinho. Gasperini deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation with Matías Soulé replacing Lorenzo Pellegrini, Wesley at right-back and Nahuel Molina on the left, while Madrid operated in a 4-2-3-1. Roma's intensity and two-touch football allowed them to dominate territorially and recover possession effectively through midfield pressure from Manu Koné and Marten de Roon. The giallorossi created multiple chances with striking ease and took a deserved lead through a goal that emerged from Paulo Dybala's sliding recovery challenge, exemplifying their determination throughout the opening period. Real Madrid's defensive structure was described as poor, with Kylian Mbappé creating danger through quick transitions despite the hosts' superior control. Roma doubled their advantage early in the second half when Rodrigo Mora set up Donyell Malen for a second goal, with Koné again instrumental in winning the ball in midfield. The lead lasted only briefly, however, before Real Madrid equalised—Mario Hermoso's poor clearance in a duel allowing Mbappé to punish the error. Koné departed injured and was replaced by Niccolò Pisilli, while Dybala also left the pitch injured. Despite these setbacks, Roma extended their lead to 2–0 approaching the hour mark, appearing to have secured a prestigious victory. The tactical balance rested on Roma's compact midfield aggression and Madrid's reliance on immediate transition and direct passes to their pacy attackers Vinícius and another forward. Mourinho responded with aggressive substitutions, introducing Eder Endrich and Arda Guler for Dumfries and an ineffective Vinícius, shifting Valverde to right-back, and later bringing in Jude Bellingham—referred to in the text as Silva—for Aurélien Tchouaméni, followed by Alejandro Balde and Carlos Espiñeira for Álvaro Cucurella and Maba Diomande. Fresh Roma changes saw Pellegrini replace Soulé and Leonardo Balerdi come on for the cautioned Gianluca Mancini. Madrid pressed relentlessly as Roma struggled to maintain defensive solidity, eventually conceding three times from set pieces near the corner flag—described as an "incredible" and "bewitched" match that delivered Mourinho's side a dramatic late victory. Both managers acknowledged the match featured two distinct contests in one fixture, with the stronger side emerging victorious at the final whistle despite Roma's earlier dominance. Koné and Dybala's injuries marked a significant cost to Roma's effort on the evening.

José Mourinho encountered three of his former Roma players after the 3–4 draw between Roma and Real Madrid on Thursday, 15 October 2026. Gianluca Mancini, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Paulo Dybala spoke with Mourinho in the plaza outside Stadio Olimpico near the team coaches at the end of a particularly significant evening for the Special One, who returned to the capital as an opponent. The meeting underscored the enduring connection between Mourinho and the club he managed during his time in Rome. The encounter took place in the immediate aftermath of a dramatic fixture that delivered plenty for both sides to reflect on. In the ratings published by five daily newspapers covering the match, Donyell Malen emerged as Roma's highest-rated performer with an average of 7.60. Matías Soulé followed with 7.10 and Wesley with 7.00, while Marten de Roon closed at 6.80. Leonardo Balerdi received the lowest average rating at 5.10. Among the starting players, Nahuel Molina posted the lowest average mark at 5.20, followed by Mario Hermoso at 5.30 and Pierluigi Gollini at 5.50.

Rodrigo Mora has praised Wesley for playing a central role in his integration into the Roma squad following his arrival at the club. Speaking to TNT Sports after Roma's match against Real Madrid, the Portuguese midfielder highlighted Wesley's importance in helping him settle, particularly because they share a common language. "He was the one who helped me most when I arrived at Roma, also because he speaks Portuguese like me," Mora said. Mora's swift adaptation to the club's international environment reflects the multilingual nature of Roma's dressing room. The midfielder drew on his experience at Porto, where he had played alongside numerous Brazilian players and formed strong relationships with them. His comments underline how crucial those early connections have been to his transition to Italian football. Mora offered a broader message of gratitude to the squad: "I thank Wesley and the whole team for welcoming me so well. Now we must continue on this path." His remarks confirm that Mora has integrated smoothly into a cosmopolitan squad, with his partnership with Wesley proving particularly influential from his opening days at the club.

Roma hosted Real Madrid in a Champions League fixture at the Olimpico featuring a tactical contest that saw the giallorossi control the game for the opening hour before succumbing to late changes by José Mourinho. Gasperini deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation with Matías Soulé replacing Lorenzo Pellegrini, Wesley at right-back and Nahuel Molina on the left, while Madrid operated in a 4-2-3-1. Roma's intensity and two-touch football allowed them to dominate territorially and recover possession effectively through midfield pressure from Manu Koné and Marten de Roon. The giallorossi created multiple chances with striking ease and took a deserved lead through a goal that emerged from Paulo Dybala's sliding recovery challenge, exemplifying their determination throughout the opening period. Real Madrid's defensive structure was described as poor, with Kylian Mbappé creating danger through quick transitions despite the hosts' superior control. Roma doubled their advantage early in the second half when Rodrigo Mora set up Donyell Malen for a second goal, with Koné again instrumental in winning the ball in midfield. The lead lasted only briefly, however, before Real Madrid equalised—Mario Hermoso's poor clearance in a duel allowing Mbappé to punish the error. Koné departed injured and was replaced by Niccolò Pisilli, while Dybala also left the pitch injured. Despite these setbacks, Roma extended their lead to 2–0 approaching the hour mark, appearing to have secured a prestigious victory. The tactical balance rested on Roma's compact midfield aggression and Madrid's reliance on immediate transition and direct passes to their pacy attackers Vinícius and another forward. Mourinho responded with aggressive substitutions, introducing Eder Endrich and Arda Guler for Dumfries and an ineffective Vinícius, shifting Valverde to right-back, and later bringing in Jude Bellingham—referred to in the text as Silva—for Aurélien Tchouaméni, followed by Alejandro Balde and Carlos Espiñeira for Álvaro Cucurella and Maba Diomande. Fresh Roma changes saw Pellegrini replace Soulé and Leonardo Balerdi come on for the cautioned Gianluca Mancini. Madrid pressed relentlessly as Roma struggled to maintain defensive solidity, eventually conceding three times from set pieces near the corner flag—described as an "incredible" and "bewitched" match that delivered Mourinho's side a dramatic late victory. Both managers acknowledged the match featured two distinct contests in one fixture, with the stronger side emerging victorious at the final whistle despite Roma's earlier dominance. Koné and Dybala's injuries marked a significant cost to Roma's effort on the evening.

Roma suffered a cruel 4–3 defeat to Real Madrid in a Champions League match at the Olimpico on 15 October 2026, throwing away a winning position through three consecutive set-piece goals in the final eight minutes. For the majority of the evening, Gasperini's side controlled the Spanish giants with courage, intensity and clear tactical discipline, but a complete breakdown in the closing stages turned a performance of genuine substance into disaster. Marten de Roon gave Roma the lead at the 20th minute after a recovery by Paulo Dybala, but Kylian Mbappé equalised two minutes later following a defensive error and an unfortunate deflection off Gianluca Mancini. Roma regained the upper hand in the second half when Rodrigo Mora set up Donyell Malen to make it 2–1 at the 49th minute, and Malen struck again at the 57th minute from a perfect pass by Matías Soulé—a goal initially disallowed before VAR overturned the decision. Real Madrid then emptied their bench to bring on fresh legs including Endrick, while Roma, increasingly fatigued and with limited substitution options, retreated too deep. Between the 82nd and 90th minutes, three set-piece goals unravelled the entire performance: Espí pulled one back from a corner at the 82nd minute, Endrick equalised from another at roughly the 85th minute, and Rüdiger completed the turnaround with a headed goal at the 90th minute that silenced the stadium. The collapse was made harder by injuries to Manu Koné, who left the field in tears, and Dybala in the second half. Despite the bitter finale, the article notes Roma demonstrated they can compete as equals with Europe's elite.