Roma's titanium defence: fewest goals conceded in Europe

Inter won 5–3 against Udinese at San Siro in a Serie A match on matchday 4, but the victory was overshadowed by injury worries for boss Cristian Chivu. Calhanoglu was unavailable, ruled out by an adductor strain, and John Stones, making his competitive debut for Inter, was forced to leave the pitch shortly after the hour mark with a muscular problem. Both players' fitness will be assessed day to day, but their availability for the big match against Roma on Saturday 19 September at 18:30 at the Stadio Olimpico is in serious doubt.

Rome's radio stations offered their verdict on Roma's latest performance, with broadcasters drawing parallels between the club and Serie A's title contenders. Roberto Pruzzo on Radio Radio noted Roma's quality in the opening half hour, praising Donyell Malen as decisive and dangerous, and Paulo Dybala for demonstrating good fitness. Sandro Sabatini also called it a strong display, highlighting Roma's attacking control when ahead and singling out Leonardo Balerdi as an unexpected standout, though he pointed to Inter's defensive vulnerabilities as a contrast. Lorenzo Pes on Teleradiostereo made the boldest assessment, saying Roma have emerged as a genuine title contender alongside Inter and Como. He underlined Roma's recent defensive record—just one goal conceded in four matches—and identified centre-backs Hermoso and Mancini as a significant asset. Pes also praised Balerdi's composure and speed, and expressed surprise at Marten de Roon's quick adaptation, suggesting the midfielder's presence could complicate Gasperini's team selection in the defensive line. Pes stated: "The Roma team has become a certainty, together with Como and Inter." He noted that Inter's next opponent will be Roma after the international break, followed by Como. Pes also observed that Roma's setup differs markedly from the fixture between the clubs last season, marking a shift in how the team approaches its challenges.

Donyell Malen and Niccolò Pisilli scored as Roma won at Torino to extend their perfect start to the season to four consecutive Serie A victories. Malen's goal opened the scoring — his sixth of the campaign — before Pisilli added a second in injury time to secure the points. The display showed the defensive leadership of Leonardo Balerdi and the tactical impact of Gasperini's substitutions, with Nahuel Molina's performance on the wing and Marten de Roon's immediate influence after coming on praised for order and authority. Pisilli, deployed in the starting midfield alongside Bryan Cristante, was the standout performer. The academy product answered summer transfer speculation that had linked him with a possible exit by delivering a complete display built on work rate, game management and consistency. Gasperini demands exactly this standard and Pisilli continued to deliver it without prompting. Roma maintained their compact shape throughout at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, demonstrating the mature, solid and ambitious structure that has underpinned their four consecutive league wins and unbeaten record this season.

Roma's transfer strategy this summer has drawn criticism from sections of the media, particularly the departures and arrivals in defence. Jan Ziółkowski, signed in August 2025 at a low fee following scout Massara's assessment of his potential in Poland, has left to gain playing time elsewhere after Gasperini identified other priorities. Alongside Konstantinos Koulierakis, Leonardo Balerdi arrived late in the window—the former Marseille captain—prompting complaints from observers who questioned why Ziółkowski was sold if money was then spent on a replacement. The logic behind Roma's approach is becoming clearer in the opening weeks of the season. Ziółkowski may return one day ready to compete for a starting place, or he may represent a useful profit for the club's finances. For now, Balerdi is what Roma need. What rankles some commentators is that those now celebrating Balerdi's arrival were among those who dismissed his signing initially, often appearing unfamiliar with his name. Before Turin-Roma, some called for Balerdi to replace Gianluca Mancini, whom they had written off as finished after errors against Atalanta and Fenerbahçe. Mancini, however, produced a monumental display at Turin, exposing the opportunism of those quick to turn on him. The article criticizes media outlets for excitement in watching Roma stumble rather than genuine engagement with the club's direction.

Rome's radio stations offered their verdict on Roma's latest performance, with broadcasters drawing parallels between the club and Serie A's title contenders. Roberto Pruzzo on Radio Radio noted Roma's quality in the opening half hour, praising Donyell Malen as decisive and dangerous, and Paulo Dybala for demonstrating good fitness. Sandro Sabatini also called it a strong display, highlighting Roma's attacking control when ahead and singling out Leonardo Balerdi as an unexpected standout, though he pointed to Inter's defensive vulnerabilities as a contrast. Lorenzo Pes on Teleradiostereo made the boldest assessment, saying Roma have emerged as a genuine title contender alongside Inter and Como. He underlined Roma's recent defensive record—just one goal conceded in four matches—and identified centre-backs Hermoso and Mancini as a significant asset. Pes also praised Balerdi's composure and speed, and expressed surprise at Marten de Roon's quick adaptation, suggesting the midfielder's presence could complicate Gasperini's team selection in the defensive line. Pes stated: "The Roma team has become a certainty, together with Como and Inter." He noted that Inter's next opponent will be Roma after the international break, followed by Como. Pes also observed that Roma's setup differs markedly from the fixture between the clubs last season, marking a shift in how the team approaches its challenges.

Radio commentators have delivered strong verdicts on Roma's performance in their most recent match, with consensus that the team is well-positioned heading into the season. Carina told Radio Radio: "Roma seems to me to have something more even compared to rivals, even Inter, which appears to have some injury problems, especially in defence. Roma instead seems well set up, together with Como. Inter's strikers, nobody has in Italy: Lautaro didn't play yesterday and nobody noticed, but they have problems that Roma and Como don't have." Pruzzo added: "I liked Roma: in the first half an hour it found solutions, exploited the opponents' errors. Malen is too decisive and too dangerous, Dybala showed he is in good condition. It seemed to me a good Roma for what the match demanded." Orsi emphasised the team's trajectory: "Yesterday was a match where Roma deserved to win. It didn't excite me, but that's normal given the energy spent in these days. Roma at the moment is doing well. Svilar made only one save, it seems to me that Torino's attack was soft: it confirmed the squad's good moment. The direct clash against Inter can give the championship answers about the work done so far. Roma plays as Gasperini wants, but it doesn't always find inconsistent squads: now it finds Inter, which when it breaks away in one-on-one is more complicated to face." Sabatini highlighted individual performances: "It was a great match, because as long as Roma went ahead it was always on the attack: Torino was, as they say, put to sleep. A match of good management, with individuals like Malen and with some surprise like Balerdi: I didn't think he was so strong." Pes noted that Roma has conceded only one goal in four matches and praised defensive structure: "Roma attacks with two centre-backs, Hermoso and Mancini, and for me this is also a great added value. Balerdi has a way of playing that impresses: security, speed." Roma will face Inter next, followed by Como after the international break.

Evan N'Dicka and Wesley will be available for Roma's match against Inter at the Olimpico on Saturday, despite recent minor fitness concerns. N'Dicka, who had an intestinal virus and some light fatigue, is expected to reclaim his place in defence, though Leonardo Balerdi's performance in Turin means the decision carries some conditionality. Wesley will operate regularly on the left, while the right-back position will see competition between Nahuel Molina and Emanuele Lulli. Manu Koné will return to the starting lineup after his absence. Lorenzo Pellegrini remains on the bench as part of his gradual reintegration following the international break. Roma approach their most difficult fixture of the season with a fully available squad.

Roma extended their unbeaten run to nine matches in Serie A with a commanding 2–0 away victory at Torino, goals from Donyell Malen and Niccolò Pisilli securing the club's fourth consecutive win at the start of the 2026–27 season. The nine-game streak combines four wins from this campaign's opening phase with the final stretch of last season—a run Roma have not achieved since 2014–15. The result keeps Roma level on points with Inter, who visit the Olimpico on Saturday for a fixture scheduled before the international break. Despite managing an injury emergency and enforced rotation following Champions League action, manager Gian Piero Gasperini's side played with notable control and personality. Leonardo Balerdi made his first Serie A start in place of an injured Evan N'Dicka, while Nahuel Molina also started. Malen opened the scoring in the 40th minute, latching onto a loose ball after Gianluca Mancini's high press and a Paulo Dybala assist, for his sixth league goal of the campaign. In the second half, Roma managed the game with maturity, their defence marshalled by a commanding Balerdi performance, while Mile Svilar made a decisive save on Simeone. Gasperini introduced Marten de Roon, Manu Koné, Santiago Castro and Rodrigo Mora from the bench, injecting fresh energy and tactical clarity. Pisilli sealed the win in injury time with a right-footed finish, converting after Mancini's generous play with a loose ball, in a display that reinforced Roma's current form ahead of Saturday's meeting with the defending champions.

Roma extended their perfect start to the season with a commanding 2–0 victory at Turin, maintaining their position at the top of Serie A with four wins in four matches and twelve points. Donyell Malen opened the scoring in the first half after a mistake by Perri allowed Gianluca Mancini to set up Paulo Dybala, who crossed for the Dutch forward to finish from close range — his sixth goal in four games. Torino pressed after the interval, with Simone forcing an excellent save from Mile Svilar, but Roma controlled the match throughout. Mario Hermoso produced an outstanding defensive performance, highlighted by an impressive recovery against Bragança that drew applause from the crowd. Gian Piero Gasperini introduced fresh legs in the form of Marten de Roon and Manu Koné to shield the midfield, while managing energy after Roma's Champions League fixture. Niccolò Pisilli sealed the result late on with a precise diagonal finish. The victory completed a demanding three-match cycle for Roma while rotating intelligently, resting Malen, Paulo Dybala and Bryan Cristante in the closing stages despite absences of Koné, Evan N'Dicka and Wesley earlier in the contest. Gasperini had earlier stated: "There is only one Roma", a sentiment the Turin win reinforced. The squad's rhythm, tactical clarity and mentality reflect those of a big team, with Gasperini preaching patience and taking matters one step at a time while managing the demands of European football. The atmosphere has built with growing enthusiasm among supporters, though the manager remains focused on steady progress rather than grand proclamations. Roma now face their next significant examination: Inter visit the Olimpico on Saturday for what the source describes as the perfect test of the club's title ambitions this season.

Rome's radio stations offered their verdict on Roma's latest performance, with broadcasters drawing parallels between the club and Serie A's title contenders. Roberto Pruzzo on Radio Radio noted Roma's quality in the opening half hour, praising Donyell Malen as decisive and dangerous, and Paulo Dybala for demonstrating good fitness. Sandro Sabatini also called it a strong display, highlighting Roma's attacking control when ahead and singling out Leonardo Balerdi as an unexpected standout, though he pointed to Inter's defensive vulnerabilities as a contrast. Lorenzo Pes on Teleradiostereo made the boldest assessment, saying Roma have emerged as a genuine title contender alongside Inter and Como. He underlined Roma's recent defensive record—just one goal conceded in four matches—and identified centre-backs Hermoso and Mancini as a significant asset. Pes also praised Balerdi's composure and speed, and expressed surprise at Marten de Roon's quick adaptation, suggesting the midfielder's presence could complicate Gasperini's team selection in the defensive line. Pes stated: "The Roma team has become a certainty, together with Como and Inter." He noted that Inter's next opponent will be Roma after the international break, followed by Como. Pes also observed that Roma's setup differs markedly from the fixture between the clubs last season, marking a shift in how the team approaches its challenges.

Radio commentators have delivered strong verdicts on Roma's performance in their most recent match, with consensus that the team is well-positioned heading into the season. Carina told Radio Radio: "Roma seems to me to have something more even compared to rivals, even Inter, which appears to have some injury problems, especially in defence. Roma instead seems well set up, together with Como. Inter's strikers, nobody has in Italy: Lautaro didn't play yesterday and nobody noticed, but they have problems that Roma and Como don't have." Pruzzo added: "I liked Roma: in the first half an hour it found solutions, exploited the opponents' errors. Malen is too decisive and too dangerous, Dybala showed he is in good condition. It seemed to me a good Roma for what the match demanded." Orsi emphasised the team's trajectory: "Yesterday was a match where Roma deserved to win. It didn't excite me, but that's normal given the energy spent in these days. Roma at the moment is doing well. Svilar made only one save, it seems to me that Torino's attack was soft: it confirmed the squad's good moment. The direct clash against Inter can give the championship answers about the work done so far. Roma plays as Gasperini wants, but it doesn't always find inconsistent squads: now it finds Inter, which when it breaks away in one-on-one is more complicated to face." Sabatini highlighted individual performances: "It was a great match, because as long as Roma went ahead it was always on the attack: Torino was, as they say, put to sleep. A match of good management, with individuals like Malen and with some surprise like Balerdi: I didn't think he was so strong." Pes noted that Roma has conceded only one goal in four matches and praised defensive structure: "Roma attacks with two centre-backs, Hermoso and Mancini, and for me this is also a great added value. Balerdi has a way of playing that impresses: security, speed." Roma will face Inter next, followed by Como after the international break.

Roma extended their perfect start to the season with a commanding 2–0 victory at Turin, maintaining their position at the top of Serie A with four wins in four matches and twelve points. Donyell Malen opened the scoring in the first half after a mistake by Perri allowed Gianluca Mancini to set up Paulo Dybala, who crossed for the Dutch forward to finish from close range — his sixth goal in four games. Torino pressed after the interval, with Simone forcing an excellent save from Mile Svilar, but Roma controlled the match throughout. Mario Hermoso produced an outstanding defensive performance, highlighted by an impressive recovery against Bragança that drew applause from the crowd. Gian Piero Gasperini introduced fresh legs in the form of Marten de Roon and Manu Koné to shield the midfield, while managing energy after Roma's Champions League fixture. Niccolò Pisilli sealed the result late on with a precise diagonal finish. The victory completed a demanding three-match cycle for Roma while rotating intelligently, resting Malen, Paulo Dybala and Bryan Cristante in the closing stages despite absences of Koné, Evan N'Dicka and Wesley earlier in the contest. Gasperini had earlier stated: "There is only one Roma", a sentiment the Turin win reinforced. The squad's rhythm, tactical clarity and mentality reflect those of a big team, with Gasperini preaching patience and taking matters one step at a time while managing the demands of European football. The atmosphere has built with growing enthusiasm among supporters, though the manager remains focused on steady progress rather than grand proclamations. Roma now face their next significant examination: Inter visit the Olimpico on Saturday for what the source describes as the perfect test of the club's title ambitions this season.