Rosella Sensi praises Gasperini as Roma secure Champions League return

Vincent Candela has backed Roma to make life difficult for Real Madrid in tonight's Champions League match at the Stadio Olimpico. The former Roma player spoke to Amazon Prime ahead of the fixture, emphasising the significance of the occasion for the club's return to Europe's elite competition after seven years. "It's a wonder, even though we are a bit used to it at Roma," Candela said of the stadium atmosphere. "For us it's a day of celebration, for the players it's a wonderful match against Real Madrid, who are at the top of football. We are back in the Champions League after seven years with the great Gasperini and the club. The stadium is always full, tonight even more so. We support Roma, it will be a beautiful match. I am convinced that we will put them in difficulty." Candela highlighted the tactical battle between two contrasting coaches: Gasperini and José Mourinho, now managing Real Madrid. "They are two great, winning coaches, different in how they approach the match," he explained. "Mourinho is again coaching the great Real Madrid, but Gasperini has the squad with him that is in a moment of confidence in attack and in defence. Gasperini will not change his tactics, he will play high and pressing. Even though with Mbappé and Vinicius it will be difficult. I like how Gasperini plays more; Mourinho is a winner and has won with Roma. It will be a very different match, but special."

José Mourinho will field Trent Alexander-Arnold in Real Madrid's match this evening, deploying the English right-back in place of Dumfries on the right flank, with Cucurella on the left. The decision stirs difficult memories for Roma supporters. In 2018, Roma faced Liverpool in a Champions League semi-final when Alexander-Arnold was involved in a pivotal moment: he handled the ball during El Shaarawy's shot into an empty net, a clear handball that went unpunished by the referee. That refereeing error proved decisive as Roma were subsequently eliminated from the competition. Eight years later, Alexander-Arnold will start again at the Olimpico for another Champions League night.

Roma's attack holds the key to their Champions League fixture against Real Madrid. Paulo Dybala has not scored since 18 January, a drought that underlines the importance of his performance, while Donyell Malen will provide a sharp cutting edge through his movement and pace. Real Madrid have shown defensive fragility despite a conservative approach this season, conceding eight goals in La Liga so far. No pairing of their defensive options—whether Konaté-Huijsen or Konaté-Rudiger—has appeared unbreakable. Malen's speed and directness will trouble the Blancos' back line, while Dybala will have space to operate between defence and midfield to unlock moments of brilliance. The match carries all the hallmarks of a contest decided by individual flair and precision at crucial moments.