AS Roma Match Reports

AS Roma have officially confirmed a pre-season friendly against Newport County on 4 August at Rodney Parade stadium in Wales, with kickoff at 19:00 local time (20:00 Italy time). The match is managed by former Leicester manager Fuchs and represents Roma's second test in the United Kingdom during their summer schedule. Information for visiting supporters' tickets will be communicated in the coming days. The Newport County fixture slots into Roma's busy pre-season calendar as they prepare for the Serie A season opener against Fiorentina. The friendly comes after an earlier match against Cardiff on 1 August, followed by another game at Brighton on 8 August. After these English fixtures, Roma will face Borussia Dortmund on 15 August in their final warm-up before domestic competition resumes. These matches form part of the club's preparations under their summer training camp, with player fitness and tactical development a priority ahead of the new season.

Roma midfielder Manu Koné started for France in their Round of 16 World Cup match against Paraguay, replacing the injured Aurélien Tchouameni. Despite the absence of Real Madrid's midfielder, French media and supporters have praised Koné's solid display. France won 1–0 thanks to a Kylian Mbappé penalty, advancing to the quarter-finals while demonstrating resilience against a compact defensive opponent. Koné earned widespread acclaim for his performance across both defensive and attacking phases. Journalist Olivier Bossard of L'Équipe stated: "I am not concerned about Tchouameni's absence. I think Koné will be very good and hold firm. We are not losing quality—in fact, we may even improve with him, because we gain attacking options without losing anything in defence." The Roma midfielder recorded 88 touches, tied for the match high, and attempted three long-range shots while making continuous defensive interventions. RMC Sport named him man of the match, though some outlets such as Le Figaro highlighted technical errors in the first half. Deschamps' assistant Guy Stéphan described Koné as "a different type of player, one with quality and a different profile," emphasizing his ball recovery abilities and distribution. Koné was cautioned late in the match but demonstrated the work rate and versatility that satisfied French staff and supporters alike.

France advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with a narrow 1–0 victory over Paraguay, secured by a penalty converted by Kylian Mbappé. The South American side proved a tough and physical opponent, but France maintained composure and achieved their objective. Midfielder Manu Koné was among those praised for his performance in a demanding match. Koné, who currently plays for AS Roma, delivered a composed display in midfield against Paraguay's aggressive approach. He spoke about the nature of the contest after the match, noting the physicality on display and the tactical awareness required to navigate it without being drawn into unnecessary confrontation. The midfielder highlighted France's preparation and intelligence in handling the situation. In his post-match comments to beIN Sports, Koné reflected: "It was a very hard match, but we are happy. Today we adapted. They were a rather... physical team! We choose our words carefully (smiles). We managed to stand up to our opponents in the challenges, we won 1–0, we were effective. There were some excessive interventions, but we didn't fall into their trap. The coach had warned us during the week. We were intelligent, we just wanted to win." France's disciplined approach proved decisive in securing progression to the next stage.

Roma midfielder Neil El Aynaoui spoke after Morocco's World Cup victory over Canada, which secured passage to the quarter-finals. He acknowledged that Canada started strongly and caught his team off guard in the first half, but Morocco adjusted in the second period to create more dangerous opportunities. El Aynaoui reflected on the tournament's difficulty, noting that all matches present challenges regardless of opponent. El Aynaoui confirmed ongoing contact with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini and his coaching staff during the international break. When asked about communication, he stated: "Yes. I am in contact with the staff, we speak by message." The midfielder remains a key player for Morocco despite an underwhelming individual performance in the Canada match. He dismissed any notion of seeking revenge against France, whom Morocco lost to in the previous World Cup, emphasizing that each remaining fixture demands full preparation. Should France progress and Morocco advance, a quarter-final meeting could see fellow Roma player Koné face El Aynaoui on the pitch, adding a giallorossi dimension to potential later-stage matchups.

El Aynaoui, the Roma midfielder, will start in Morocco's World Cup round-of-16 match against Canada, serving as a key pivot in the team's midfield alongside Bouaddi and Ounahi. The North African nation faces Canada in the opening knockout fixture, having eliminated the Netherlands in the group stage. El Aynaoui has impressed throughout the tournament and has attracted transfer interest following his performances. Anass Salah-Eddine, the other Roma player in the squad, will begin the match on the bench. The midfielder hopes to feature during the match and make an impact that could convince head coach Gasperini to evaluate him during pre-season training. El Aynaoui's influential displays in recent weeks have made him a central figure for Morocco's push toward the quarter-finals.

Egypt defeated Australia on penalties after a 1–1 draw in extra time, advancing to the quarter-finals of the World Cup being held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The victory marked Egypt's first-ever progression past a knockout stage at a World Cup. Egypt will face the winner of the Argentina–Cape Verde match in the next round. Matthew Ryan, the Australian goalkeeper, took centre stage despite the loss. The former Roma player, who made one appearance in the Giallorossi shirt during a 4–1 Coppa Italia round-of-16 win over Sampdoria in December 2024, was brought on as a specialist penalty-taker in the final stages of the second period of extra time, replacing Beach. Ryan was unable to save any of Egypt's four penalty attempts. Mohamed Salah converted his penalty — executed with a chip — to seal the match-point for Egypt. Ryan is currently a free agent following his time at Levante.

Roma will complete their pre-season schedule with a friendly against Borussia Dortmund on 15 August at 17:30 at the Signal Iduna Park. This will be the final warm-up match before the competitive campaign begins. Ticket sales have now opened for Roma's away section, which holds 583 seats. Standard tickets are priced at €25, with reductions available for under-18s and supporters with disabilities at €15 each. Dortmund has specified that visiting supporters cannot access home sections while wearing Roma colours. The match follows Roma's earlier pre-season test against Cannes on 26 July at the Pierre de Coubertin stadium, also kicking off at 17:30. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's squad will use these friendlies to build match fitness and tactical cohesion ahead of the new season. The Dortmund fixture represents a significant test against a major European club. On the same day, Roma's women's team will face Borussia Dortmund's women's side at Stadion Rote Erde, an adjacent facility, at 13:00. Women's tickets are available for €5.

The Netherlands defeated Tunisia 3–1 in their final group match, securing first place and advancing to the round of 16. Goals came from an own goal by Skhiri, Brobbey, and van Hecke, while Mastouri scored for Tunisia. Donyell Malen, the AS Roma winger, played from the start on the right flank but remained goalless, being substituted in the 72nd minute for Summerville. Tunisia finished the tournament with zero points. The Netherlands will face Morocco in the round of 16 on 30 June at 3 a.m. Italian time. This sets up a Roma connection, as both sides are managed by figures linked to the Giallorossi. The match represents a significant moment for Malen, who will be eager to end his tournament campaign with a goal after failing to find the net in the group stage. Malen's performance comes amid Roma's broader mercato activity, with the club reportedly consolidating its squad ahead of the new season.

Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman explained his decision to replace Roma winger Donyell Malen at halftime during the Oranje's 5–1 win over Sweden in a World Cup qualifier. Malen was deployed on the wing in the first half but struggled with defensive duties as Sweden adjusted to a four-defender formation, prompting the change. Koeman said: "The first half concluded with a weaker phase of play, partly because Sweden began playing with four defenders. Our wingers kept pressing their centre-back, whereas usually the number 9s and 10s do that. Consequently, we found ourselves in serious trouble a couple of times. The defensive phase was also the reason for Malen's substitution; I believe Summerville is better defensively. We often talk with players about the need to recognise changes on the pitch more quickly. I understand the substitution is difficult for Donyell, but this is high-level football. A team performance is expected." The Roma striker had failed to score in pre-tournament friendlies and his opening match against Japan before facing Sweden. Koeman was quick to reassure supporters and the player himself, stating that Malen is not being scapegoated and may return as a centre-forward in upcoming matches. He also noted that striker Brobbey had experienced a minor hamstring issue, explaining the need for rotation.

Donyell Malen will play on the right wing for the Netherlands in their Group B match against Sweden, a fixture already crucial after drawing 0–0 against Japan in their opening game. Coach Ronald Koeman has reshaped the attacking setup, positioning Gakpo on the left, Malen on the right, and Brobbey of Sunderland as the central striker. This marks a change from the first match, where Malen operated in a more central role. Koeman's tactical adjustment aims to generate more attacking opportunities as the Netherlands seeks vital goals in what is effectively a knockout stage match. Malen, who plays for AS Roma in Serie A, will be crucial to the team's attacking threat on the flank rather than leading the line. The strategic shift reflects Koeman's desire to optimize the team's attacking balance while still utilizing Malen's pace and technical abilities in a different capacity. The match against Sweden kicks off at 19:00 local time and represents a critical encounter for the Netherlands' tournament progression.

Neil El Aynaoui delivered another strong performance for Morocco following an impressive display against Brazil, helping his country to victory. El Aynaoui demonstrated leadership qualities and influential play, while also helping to neutralize Scotland midfielder McTominay during the match. The performance underscores his growing importance to the Moroccan national team setup. For Roma, the display represents continued positive form from the midfielder on the international stage, building momentum as he balances club and country commitments.

Neil El Aynaoui delivered a commanding display in Morocco's 1–0 victory over Scotland in World Cup action, establishing himself as a central figure in the North African nation's midfield. The Roma midfielder was omnipresent across the pitch, recording 98 touches with 95% passing accuracy while creating chances in the attacking third. He won 6 duels and 4 challenges, bringing defensive stability and intensity to Morocco's setup under coach Ouahbi. His performance included a gladiatorial physical contest with Scotland's McTominay in the first half—a challenge that left El Aynaoui bleeding from the mouth but undeterred—and another confrontation during a corner kick in the second half that resulted in a torn shirt. El Aynaoui's form continues to catch attention as Morocco pursues qualification from Group C. The midfielder demonstrated strong understanding with fellow Moroccan talent Bouaddi, an 18-year-old from Lille who has been linked with Roma as a potential alternative in midfield recruitment discussions. Social media reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with supporters highlighting his work-rate and composure: one observer noted, "Miglior giocatore del Marocco nelle prime due partite. Facile da sottovalutare, impossibile da ignorare" (Best player for Morocco in the first two matches. Easy to underestimate, impossible to ignore). El Aynaoui will return to action on June 25 in Morocco's final group match against Haiti. He was greeted by Roma supporters with chants of "Forza Roma!" upon his return to Fiumicino airport following the Scotland clash.

Morocco defeated Scotland 1–0 in World Cup Group C action, with a goal from Saibari early in the match. The Moroccan side climbed to the top of the group with 4 points after two matches, level with Brazil, who won 3–0 against Haiti. AS Roma midfielder El Aynaoui played the full 90 minutes alongside Bouaddi in Morocco's midfield, delivering another strong performance marked by defensive recoveries and shots from distance. During the first half, El Aynaoui was involved in a collision with McTominay at the 36-minute mark; he suffered a mouth injury that caused bleeding but continued playing. Turkey's World Cup campaign ended after a second consecutive defeat. The Turkish side lost 1–0 to Paraguay, with Galarza scoring after just two minutes. This loss followed Turkey's opening 2–0 defeat to Australia. Roma's Çelik remained on the bench during the Paraguay match. Turkey's squad was guided by former Roma manager Montella. The knockout blow came in the second half when Paraguay played with 10 men following Almiron's red card in first-half stoppage time; the dismissal followed a VAR review of an incident involving Muldur. With two losses from two matches, Turkey was mathematically eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.

Manu Koné, AS Roma's midfielder, remained unused on the bench throughout France's 3–1 victory over Senegal in a World Cup 2026 qualifier. Coach Deschamps opted to start Tchouaméni and Rabiot in midfield, making only attacking substitutions in the second half with Barcola and Cherki entering the pitch. France secured the win through a double from Mbappé and a goal from Barcola following his introduction, while Senegal's Mbaye scored a late consolation. Koné's absence marks a delayed debut for the Roma player at the tournament. He may see increased playing time in France's upcoming fixture against Iraq on Monday, June 22. The midfielder's potential involvement in future matches remains to be clarified as France progresses through their World Cup campaign.

Cape Verde secured their first-ever point in a World Cup after drawing 0-0 with Spain in a surprising result. Spain, featuring Yamal, created numerous chances but failed to break down the Cape Verdean defence, leaving the European side needing to recover quickly in their next match to avoid elimination from the tournament. The result marks an unusual upset in the current World Cup edition, which has already delivered several surprises. Spain's manager De La Fuente will need to regroup his squad after the disappointing stalemate. The pressure now intensifies on Spain to secure three points in their upcoming fixture, as failing to do so could result in their shock exit from the competition. Meanwhile, Roma midfielder Wesley has been pictured enjoying downtime at the seaside in Ponza following his World Cup disappointment, taking a boat trip to unwind during the tournament break.

Donyell Malen featured in the Netherlands' opening World Cup match against Japan, which ended in a disappointing draw. Dutch supporters on social media were split in their assessment of the Roma forward's performance and coach Ronald Koeman's management of the game. Many fans criticized Koeman's substitution of Malen, arguing that removing him removed a key outlet for counterattacking play. One supporter wrote: "Leave him alone, damn it. He's quick on the counter. It's a terrible substitution. Depay no longer has that spark. I really don't understand." Others echoed similar frustration, with fans noting that replacing Malen, Summerville, and Gakpo with players lacking defensive depth was a strategic error. However, not all criticism was directed at Koeman. Some Dutch supporters pointed to Malen's individual play as a problem, arguing he was too focused on creating chances alone rather than playing within the team structure. One fan commented: "I hope Malen remembers he plays in a team." Others suggested starting the match with Malen as a substitute rather than in the XI, or questioned his overall approach to play as too individualistic. Despite the mixed reception, Malen remains a key part of the Dutch attacking options. The Netherlands face Sweden in their next World Cup match on June 20, a fixture that will be vital for progression in the tournament.

Donyell Malen started for the Netherlands against Japan in what appeared to be an international fixture, playing nearly seventy minutes and coming close to scoring on multiple occasions. The Roma forward created a chance for himself within three minutes of kick-off but was denied by goalkeeper Suzuki. At the half-hour mark, Malen rose high for a header between Taniguchi and Doan, only for Suzuki to make another sharp save. He remained a threat in the opening period with additional heading chances before fading in the second half. The Netherlands took the lead through Van Dijk, but Japan equalized via Nakamura before Summerville restored the Dutch advantage. Summerville scored again to extend the lead, and Japan pulled level once more through Kamada, ending the match at 2–2. Malen was substituted after approximately seventy minutes, with Depay entering the field. The performance marks a positive outing for the Roma attacker despite his inability to find the net. Malen will have further opportunities to score as the tournament continues, with upcoming fixtures against Sweden and Tunisia mentioned as part of the group stage schedule.

Germany delivered a dominant performance in their World Cup Group E opener, defeating Curaçao 7–1. After a shaky start in which Curaçao's Comenencia equalized an early goal by Nmecha, Germany took control. Schlottenberg restored the lead before half-time, and Havertz converted a penalty to make it 3–1 at the interval. The Arsenal forward completed a brace in the 88th minute, with additional goals from Musiala and Undav sealing a commanding victory for Julian Nagelsmann's side. Germany's Group E also includes Ivory Coast and Ecuador. AS Roma midfielder Wesley was spotted relaxing at sea near Ponza following his disappointment at the World Cup, suggesting he is taking time away from competition after the tournament. Meanwhile, Roma's transfer activity continues to develop around players linked with moves away from the club, including Matías Soulé, who is reportedly attracting interest from Fenerbahçe.

Donyell Malen started for the Netherlands in their World Cup group-stage opener against Japan, leading the attack alongside Gakpo and Summerville. The Roma forward was keen to silence recent criticism following subdued performances in two warm-up matches ahead of the tournament. Former Danish footballer and ESPN pundit Kenneth Perez had been particularly vocal, saying: "I was at a golf tournament where there were many Italians, and they said: 'Malen demonstrates the problem with Italian football. How mediocre it has become, if he manages to excel in this context'. They think their league is worth nothing." Malen's inclusion in the starting XI offered him a chance to respond on the pitch and prove his worth at the international stage. The match represents a significant opportunity for the Roma forward to demonstrate his form and capability in a major tournament. The Netherlands lined up in a 4-3-3 formation under coach Koeman, with Malen tasked not only with goal-scoring duties but also with contributing to the team's general play. Japan operated in a 3-4-2-1 setup under manager Moriyasu.

Donyell Malen is set to play for the Netherlands against Japan in a key international fixture, with Dutch football figures and supporters expressing confidence in the AS Roma forward despite some poor finishing in recent friendlies. The match comes at a time when the Netherlands is debating who should lead the attack, with Malen facing competition for the starting role. Malen has enjoyed an impressive run of form over recent months with Roma, but made some costly mistakes in his last two warm-up games. Nevertheless, the majority of Dutch opinion remains firmly in his corner. Ibrahim Afellay, a former Netherlands international now serving as PSV vice-coach and pundit, publicly backed the Roma forward, stating: "For me there is nothing to discuss. I would play him in attack. Depay has certainly shown he deserves that spot, that is clear. But he is not yet in form. Should we perhaps bench someone like Malen, who is at the height of his form and who has played brilliantly with Roma for six months, simply because he missed chances in two matches? I also believe you must give him opportunities and long-term confidence. He is the future of the Netherlands." Dutch supporters interviewed by DAZN echoed this backing, with comments including: "He will score today, he will be the top scorer!", "I really like him, he will be decisive!", and "So far he hasn't had the chance to show everything he is worth, I hope he manages it in this tournament."

Donyell Malen is preparing for his World Cup debut this evening as the Netherlands face Japan in Group F at Arlington, Texas. The Roma forward is expected to start and will encounter Suzuki, the Japanese goalkeeper he faced recently when Roma defeated Parma 3–2 on 10 May. In that match, Malen scored twice against Suzuki—first with a precise strike from distance, then converting a penalty in the 101st minute. Malen arrives at the tournament seeking to rediscover his scoring form after failing to find the net in two pre-World Cup friendlies against Algeria and Uzbekistan. Regaining his goal-scoring touch is crucial to secure his place in the starting lineup and avoid losing opportunities to fellow forward Depay. The article notes that other Roma players have already featured in World Cup matches: El Aynaoui's Morocco drew 1–1 with Brazil, and Çelik played 81 minutes in Turkey's loss to Australia. Malen's previous success against Suzuki provides a psychological edge, and scoring in tonight's match would represent a significant confidence boost as he aims to establish himself with the Oranje during the tournament and build on the strong impression he has already made at Roma.

Two AS Roma players made their World Cup 2026 debuts as their national teams took the pitch. El Aynaoui played the full 90 minutes for Morocco in a 1–1 draw against Brazil at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Morocco took the lead through Saibari in the 21st minute, but Vinicius Junior equalized shortly after. El Aynaoui came close to a late winner in stoppage time, but Alisson made crucial saves to deny him. Meanwhile, Celik started for Turkey against Australia but could not prevent a 2–0 defeat; the lateralnavigated 81 minutes and had a chance to level the score late in the match but was denied by goalkeeper Beach. Turkey, managed by Montella, remain without points in Group D alongside Paraguay. Brazil and Morocco sit second and third respectively in Group C, where Scotland leads after beating Haiti 1–0. Several other Roma players are expected to feature in upcoming matches. Malen is due to play for the Netherlands against Japan later today, while Ndicka will feature for Ivory Coast against Ecuador. Celik has been in discussions over a contract renewal with Roma and continues to be closely monitored by the club during the tournament.

A Roma midfielder featured in Morocco's lineup ahead of a World Cup group-stage match against Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti. The encounter was described as a significant early tournament fixture. The midfielder was instrumental in preparing his national team for what was anticipated to be a competitive contest. The match represented a key moment in the group stage, pitting two traditional footballing powerhouses against each other. Details of the specific comments and tactical approach remain unclear from the available information.

A Roma midfielder has rallied his Morocco squad ahead of their World Cup group match against Brazil on the same evening that teammate Donyell Malen prepares for the Netherlands against Japan. The Roma player addressed the team after training, expressing confidence in their tactical preparation. He stated: "We have worked well these days on Brazil's team. We have seen their weak points and will try to exploit them. It will be a great match. We are determined. The staff has worked very well analysing Brazil's recent matches." The midfielder also highlighted the importance of Morocco's home support, drawing parallels to their recent Africa Cup of Nations triumph. He noted: "Morocco's public is incredible. We already saw it during preparation in the match against Norway: it seemed like we were at home." This World Cup campaign marks another significant test for Morocco, who reached the semi-finals at Qatar 2022 and won the continental title earlier this year. The evening's fixture pits Morocco against Brazil, with both nations eyeing progression from their group. Roma's involvement in international football remains prominent, with multiple squad members competing at the World Cup across different confederations.

AS Roma is among four clubs being considered by Barcelona to face them in the Trofeo Gamper, one of August's most prestigious summer friendlies. According to reports, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund, and Club Azul are also in contention. No final decision has been made, though discussions are ongoing. A match against Barcelona would add significant prestige to Roma's pre-season schedule ahead of the new campaign. The Trofeo Gamper is a historic annual tournament that has attracted top Italian sides in the past, including Napoli. Unlike most summer friendlies, the competition holds considerable symbolic weight in football's calendar. Roma has already confirmed two other pre-season matches: one against Borussia Dortmund and another against Cannes. Should Roma secure the Barcelona fixture, it would elevate the club's summer preparations and provide valuable competitive preparation. The prospect has been circulating for weeks but now carries renewed credibility. Details of the final decision timeline remain unclear.

Niccolò Pisilli was among the standout performers as Italy defeated Greece in a friendly match under coach Baldini. The AS Roma midfielder featured prominently across two recent friendlies for the Azzurri, following an assist he provided in a previous match against Luxembourg. Pisilli completed 90 minutes in the Greece fixture, earning praise for his display. Pisilli's performances have highlighted his growing importance to the Italian national team setup. His contributions across the two friendlies—including the creative assist in Luxembourg—suggest he is becoming a key option in midfield for the Azzurri. The Roma youngster's ability to perform at international level adds to the squad depth available to Baldini as Italy prepares for upcoming commitments. Pisilli described his approach with the words "heart and pride," reflecting his mentality during the matches. His extended involvement in consecutive friendlies indicates he has secured a prominent role in Baldini's plans moving forward.

AS Roma will play a friendly against AS Cannes on 26 July in Rome, bringing together two clubs owned by the Friedkin family. Both sides enjoyed successful 2025–26 seasons: Roma finished third in Serie A and secured Champions League qualification for the first time under Friedkin ownership after seven years, while Cannes achieved historic promotion to France's third tier (Championnat National 1) for the first time in 15 years. For Gasperini's squad, the match serves as a useful test during the early phase of pre-season preparation before facing stronger opponents. Roma will next play Borussia Dortmund on 15 August. The friendly represents a significant prestige fixture for Cannes but carries particular value for Roma as a controlled stepping stone in their summer training programme ahead of the new campaign. Gasperini commented on the ownership structure, stating: "A greater presence from the Friedkins is needed. With them, Roma is stronger." The fixture highlights the expanding portfolio of the Friedkin Group in European football and offers both clubs important competitive minutes during the off-season.

Donyell Malen squandered a straightforward goal-scoring opportunity in a Netherlands warm-up match against Uzbekistan, which the Dutch won 2–0 through two penalties converted by Gakpo. Malen, a current AS Roma player, failed to capitalize on the chance in the penalty area—an uncharacteristic error for him. This marked his second blank outing in the pre-World Cup friendlies, having also failed to score in an earlier test against Algeria, which ended in defeat. Netherlands coach Koeman addressed the finishing concerns in his post-match press conference, acknowledging the squad's broader issue with converting opportunities. The coach noted that in both recent friendlies, the team had scored only from penalties, adding pressure to performers in open play. Koeman stated: "In these two matches we've scored two goals from penalties. We create the chances, but if we don't score these matches we risk drawing them. Summerville and Malen missed two goals." The Netherlands opens its World Cup campaign on 14 June against Japan, followed by matches against Sweden and Tunisia. Malen's involvement in those fixtures will be closely watched given his recent form in front of goal during the preparatory phase.

Donyell Malen featured as a starter for the Netherlands in a friendly match against Uzbekistan, which ended in a 2–1 victory for the Dutch. Malen played for 65 minutes before being substituted by Brobbey. The Netherlands, managed by Koeman, secured the win through two penalties converted by Gakpo, with the second coming at the end of regular time. Uzbekistan, captained by Shomurodov, provided the opposition in what served as a final warm-up fixture ahead of the upcoming tournament. For the Roma attacker, this friendly represents preparation before a significant group-stage encounter scheduled for June 14 against Japan, with kickoff at 22:00. Malen shared the attacking line with Summerville, who also started in the Dutch attacking triad. The match allowed both players to develop their understanding and rhythm as the international competition draws near. Malen will now return to focus on Roma's preparations after completing this national team commitment. His involvement in the friendly confirms his fitness and readiness for the competitive fixtures ahead.

Italy won a international friendly against Greece, with Pio Esposito scoring the decisive goal. Niccolò Pisilli, the AS Roma midfielder, played the full 90 minutes for Italy. Silvio Baldini, named interim national team coach, secured his second consecutive victory in charge. Greece's Tsimikas entered the match during the second half. Pisilli's full-match appearance provides Roma with confirmation of his fitness and form at international level, following his development as a key youth prospect in the club's midfield setup.

Italy's U17 national team advanced to the final of the European Under-17 Championship by defeating Spain 1–1 (4–2 after penalties) on June 4. Coach Franceschini's squad took the lead through a Croci penalty in the 42nd minute, but Spain equalized through Urrestarazu in the 77th minute, forcing a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Lupo proved decisive in the shootout, saving two spot-kicks after also denying a penalty during regular play, while Rocca converted the winning penalty. Niccolò Pisilli, a current AS Roma midfielder, featured in the squad and expressed his enthusiasm about the achievement. Pisilli commented: "Una grande emozione andare in Champions. Ho sempre seguito Gasperini" (It is a great emotion to qualify for the Champions League. I have always followed Gasperini). His reference to Roma's new head coach Gian Piero Gasperini reflects the midfielder's awareness of his club's recent appointment. Italy will face Belgium in the final on Sunday, June 7 at 19:00. Belgium reached the final by eliminating France. The tournament success offers an encouraging counterpoint to the senior national team's recent disappointments.

Stephan El Shaarawy scored the decisive second goal in Roma's final match against Verona, securing the club's return to the Champions League for the first time in seven years. The Egyptian winger's strike came in his last appearance in giallorossi colors, concluding a decade-long association with the club that began in January 2016. El Shaarawy's goal sparked an emotional celebration as he ran toward the away supporters at the Bentegodi stadium. Remarkably, El Shaarawy had predicted this outcome before the match. According to Sky Sport journalist Angelo Mangiante, the number 92 revealed at the end of Friday's training session that he hoped to close his Roma story with a decisive goal. He told Mangiante: "Mi piacerebbe tanto chiudere questa storia con un gol decisivo" (I would really like to close this story with a decisive goal). His premonition proved accurate, as his finish sealed Roma's return to European football's premier club competition after a seven-year absence. El Shaarawy's departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Roma. The winger's final contribution epitomized his importance to the club during his 10-year tenure, delivering a crucial moment when it mattered most for the Giallorossi's continental aspirations.

AS Roma secured a return to the UEFA Champions League after a seven-year absence following a 2–0 victory against Verona at the Bentegodi stadium. The result triggered celebrations at the airport and at Trigoria, the club's training ground, as supporters and staff marked the significant milestone. The triumph ends a lengthy period outside European football's elite competition for the Giallorossi. Details of the goalscorers remain unclear from the available information, but the victory represents a major achievement in the club's push to re-establish itself among Italy's top-flight contenders.

AS Roma secured Champions League qualification for the first time in seven years by defeating Hellas Verona 2–0 on the final day of the Serie A season. The match was tense throughout, with Verona—already relegated—playing with intensity despite their status. Mile Svilar made a crucial early save, and Paulo Dybala dominated the second half, setting up the opening goal for Donyell Malen after initially missing a penalty. Dybala also created the second goal for Stephan El Shaarawy in injury time, marking El Shaarawy's final appearance for the club before his contract expires. Roma finished third in the Serie A table, an outcome few considered possible weeks earlier. The qualification represents a significant achievement under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who took over during a troubled season marked by injuries and incomplete transfers. AC Milan and Juventus, both pre-season favorites, failed to qualify, with Milan losing at home to Cagliari and Juventus drawing with Torino. Como, managed by Cesc Fabregas, also qualified ahead of the traditional powers. Gasperini's turnaround has delivered what the Friedkin Group ownership had not previously achieved: Champions League football. The qualification transforms Roma's commercial position, recruitment capacity, and ambitions moving forward, restoring the club among Italy's elite after years of frustration.

Paulo Dybala and Stephan El Shaarawy starred in Roma's 2-0 victory over Hellas Verona, securing the club's return to the Champions League for the first time in seven years. Dybala provided the assist for El Shaarawy's final goal in Roma colors, allowing his teammate to mark his last appearance with the club on a high note. El Shaarawy, who joined Roma in January 2016, concluded his time at the Giallorossi with the decisive second goal. After the match, El Shaarawy was awarded the MVP (Most Valuable Player) award following a commanding display that included two assists. However, in an emotional gesture, Dybala refused to let his teammate keep the individual accolade. El Shaarawy called out to Dybala, saying "It's yours, it's yours," but Dybala declined, tears in his eyes, insisting El Shaarawy keep the award as a final memento of his time with Roma. The exchange underscored the mutual respect and friendship between the two players, with the pair embracing after the touching moment. Roma's Champions League qualification marks a significant achievement after a seven-year absence from European football's premier club competition.

Stephan El Shaarawy scored in Roma's Champions League-clinching victory over Verona, securing the club's European qualification on the final day of the season. Speaking to Dazn after the match, El Shaarawy reflected on what he described as the perfect ending to Roma's campaign. He said: "I think this is the most beautiful finale that could have been, the one we deserved. We have done an incredible journey, finishing it like this is truly extraordinary. Here I made my Serie A debut, finishing like this is something magical. I am truly happy about all of this and the path we have taken." El Shaarawy's comments underscored the significance of Roma's final-day success, which secured Champions League football for the coming season. The winger emphasized the scale of the club's achievement across the entire campaign, describing it as an "incredible journey" that culminated in the most meaningful way possible. His contribution with a goal added personal satisfaction to the collective milestone, making the qualification particularly poignant given his history with the club.

AS Roma secured Champions League qualification for the first time in seven years under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, triggering widespread celebrations among players and staff. The squad marked the achievement across social media, with Paulo Dybala posting the Champions League logo and Matías Soulé sharing a photo alongside Paulo and Gollini highlighting the competition Roma will enter next season. Other players including Celik, El Aynaoui, Wesley, and Calafiori also posted celebratory messages on Instagram. Lorenzo Pellegrini, who attended the match despite an injury, offered a pointed message on social media. His post read: "Banda 3° posto" (Gang third place), a barbed reference to Roma's final league position. Wesley captioned his post "Objective completed successfully," while Calafiori republished the result with an emphatic "DAJEEEEE." The Champions League return represents a significant milestone for Roma after a seven-year absence from Europe's elite club competition, marking a major step forward for Gasperini's squad.

Gianluca Mancini spoke to media after Roma secured Champions League qualification following their victory against Verona. The defender expressed overwhelming emotion at the achievement, saying: "There is huge euphoria, it is a group victory. We said it to ourselves inside, even when people wrote us off." Mancini highlighted the turnaround in Roma's final five matches, which proved decisive in finishing third with 73 points and earning a place in Europe's elite competition. Roma endured a difficult spell earlier in the season but recovered strongly under their manager's direction. Mancini emphasized the collective effort and the unity within the squad, noting that senior players including Pellegrini, Cristante, Dybala, El Shaarawy, and Celik had remained committed despite previous disappointments. He reflected on past European campaigns—Europa League semifinals and finals—that had fallen short, making this Champions League qualification particularly significant. The club's label as a mid-table team has now been shed following consistent performances and a strong finish to the season. Mancini described his emotional state: "My heart is racing. It would make me cry, but I won't. I played 11 matches under suspension but every match was important and I had to be careful. When the tempo rises and the level increases, I couldn't and didn't want to miss." He credited the manager's tactical approach and the group's reaction to setbacks as key factors in their success, particularly highlighting Roma's dramatic 2-goal comeback against Parma as a turning point that signaled the season's direction.

Gianluca Mancini spoke emotionally after Roma's final Serie A fixture of the season against Verona on matchday 38. The defender expressed pride in the team's collective performance, stating that the victory belonged to the entire group. Mancini's emotional response highlighted the significance of the result and his personal investment in Roma's campaign. The match represented the concluding round of the Serie A season, with details of the specific outcome remaining unclear from the available information.

AS Roma defeated Hellas Verona 2-0 away at the Bentegodi in the final match of the Serie A season to secure Champions League qualification. Paulo Dybala and El Shaarawy scored in the victory, with Dybala setting up El Shaarawy's goal. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini celebrated the result, which clinches a return to European football's premier club competition for the Giallorossi. The win represents a successful end to the campaign under Gasperini's leadership.

Roma secured Champions League qualification with a victory over Verona, with head coach Gasperini carried aloft by his players in celebration at the final whistle. The match featured tension and drama before joy took hold. Donyell Malen converted a penalty, Paulo Dybala added a goal with a rare left-footed finish, and Malen struck again. El Shaarawy sealed the result in the closing stages. At full time, Gasperini embraced assistant coach Gritti before the squad lifted him in the air in triumph, mirroring the success he has delivered to the club. This qualification marks a significant achievement for Roma under Gasperini's leadership. The victory was characterized by nervous moments—including a save that recalled Spiderman-like reflexes from the goalkeeper—but the team ultimately delivered when it mattered most. El Shaarawy, described as the last player to compete in the Champions League for Roma before his departure and the man who has now brought the competition back, sealed the dramatic finish. The celebrations moved to the away supporters' section, where Roma fans marked the occasion with chants, flags, waving, and emotional embraces. Club officials and players acknowledged this represents only the beginning of festivities, with the focus now shifting to celebrating the return to Europe's elite competition.

Verona's head coach Sammarco addressed the upcoming Serie A fixture against Roma on matchday 38, the season's final round. Sammarco emphasized his team's ambition to earn points in the encounter, stating that competitive success against Roma would require a performance of the highest standard. The match represents the concluding fixture of the 2025–26 Serie A campaign. Roma will travel to the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi seeking to finish their league season. Sammarco's comments suggest Verona view Roma as a formidable opponent, requiring maximum effort and tactical discipline to secure a positive result.

Paolo Sammarco, speaking ahead of Verona's match against Roma on the final day of the season, expressed his side's determination to secure a positive result. Sammarco emphasized that earning points against top-tier opponents carries prestige, citing previous victories over Juventus and Inter as evidence of Verona's capability. He stated: "We want to play our match and try to earn points. It is always prestigious to earn points against important teams like happened against Juventus and Inter. We will try tonight too, against Roma." The fixture takes place on the season's closing weekend, with Roma being positioned as one of the league's leading sides. Sammarco outlined his vision for how Verona must approach the encounter, emphasizing a high level of performance. He explained: "Everyone has objectives, also personal ones, and we want to show ourselves. Just as the boys need and have the will to play a high-level match. Only this way can we compete against Roma and try to close the season a bit better than how it has gone." Sammarco's comments reflect Verona's ambition to end their campaign on a positive note against opposition of Roma's calibre. The manager's focus remains on collective effort and individual motivation as keys to competing effectively in what represents a significant final-day challenge.

El Shaarawy will play his final match for AS Roma at Verona, with the fixture carrying crucial Champions League qualification implications. Roma are chasing a fourth-place finish that has eluded them for eight years, and victory would secure their spot in Europe. El Shaarawy spoke emotionally about his time at the club following the recent derby win, saying: "Rome is a city that gets inside you right away, and you have a real bond with it. I've tried to give everything for this shirt, I've always put myself at the disposal of the team. The public understood me and recognized it. It will leave me with a wonderful memory." The winger emphasized Roma's readiness for the Verona clash, noting the confidence gained from the derby victory and the squad's ability to remain in contention after rivals dropped points throughout the season. He reflected on his relationship with Roma supporters and the club itself, stating: "Rome has given me so much: the club, the team, and the city. I grew a lot here, it's a place that welcomes you and transmits affection right away, something I found again when I returned in 2021." El Shaarawy described the bond between himself and the fanbase as one that will endure permanently, highlighting the mutual recognition between player and supporters throughout his tenure.

AS Roma face Hellas Verona in a crucial match where the Giallorossi control their own destiny in the race for Champions League qualification. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has settled on his attacking lineup, fielding the dream front three of Matías Soulé, Paulo Dybala, and Donyell Malen. The tactical setup aims to secure victory without relying on results elsewhere. Gasperini retains some flexibility in midfield, with the possibility of starting Koné from the outset as the coach seeks to settle the match early. In defence, former Roma player Ghilardi returns to the Bentegodi as a replacement for the absent Ndicka, marking his first appearance at his former home ground in a year. On the right flank, Rensch is expected to start ahead of Wesley, tasked with repeating an impressive performance from the Parma fixture. The squad selection reflects Gasperini's intent to field his strongest available players to maximize Roma's chances of claiming the three points needed to secure Champions League football. The formation is set as a 3-4-2-1, with Mile Svilar in goal and Gianluca Mancini anchoring the defensive line.

AS Roma face Hellas Verona on 23 May 2026 at 20:35 in the final match of the Serie A season. The Giallorossi remain in contention for Champions League qualification and enter the game level on points, needing a result to secure a European spot with 90 minutes remaining in the campaign. Verona, already relegated from Serie A, have shown they can compete against top sides after taking points from both Juventus and Inter this season and are expected to provide a stern test for Gasperini's side. Gasperini has injury concerns to manage ahead of the fixture. Midfielder Koné is available for selection but may not start, while Paulo Dybala is set to be reintroduced to the lineup. Verona will likely field Bowie in their starting XI. The match marks a crucial final day where Roma's European ambitions hang in the balance, with the team needing to deliver a strong performance against opponents with little left to play for in their final game before the drop.

Roma face Hellas Verona in a make-or-break match for Champions League qualification, with head coach Gasperini fielding a squad affected by several absences. Wesley is suspended, Ndicka is injured, and Koné—though fit—will start on the bench, with El Aynaoui taking his place in midfield. Rensch will replace the unavailable right-back, and Ghilardi features in defence. Up front, the Argentine pairing of Paulo Dybala and Matías Soulé will operate behind Donyell Malen. Three points at Verona would secure fourth place and Champions League football for Roma, an achievement the club has not reached in seven years. The fixture represents a pivotal moment for the team's immediate future. Multiple Italian newspapers—Gazzetta dello Sport, Il Messaggero, Corriere dello Sport, Corriere della Sera, and Il Tempo—have outlined near-identical expected lineups, with Mile Svilar in goal, a defensive line of Ghilardi, Gianluca Mancini, and Hermoso, and a midfield anchored by Bryan Cristante and El Aynaoui alongside full-backs Celik and Rensch. The consensus across Italian media reflects widespread agreement on Gasperini's tactical approach for this decisive encounter.

AS Roma defender Hermoso has galvanized the squad ahead of the crucial away fixture against Verona. The Spanish defender, once sidelined and later loaned to Germany, has emerged as a key leader in Roma's rearguard this season under head coach Gasperini. Hermoso has earned the confidence of both the coach and supporters through his performance and attitude throughout the campaign. Hermoso's journey at Roma over the past year has been transformative. He began the season separated from the squad, followed by a period on loan abroad, before establishing himself as a defensive cornerstone and motivational force for the club. His resilience and leadership have been instrumental in shaping Roma's season. The defender understands the significance of the Verona match and has sent a clear message to teammates: "Fino alla fine" (Until the end), emphasizing the need for full concentration and mental focus for the full 90 minutes ahead. With the season nearing its conclusion, Hermoso's rallying cry reflects Roma's determination to secure a vital result. The club departed for Verona backed by supporter backing at Fiumicino, setting the stage for what could be a decisive moment in their campaign.

Roma travel to Verona on Sunday with their Champions League qualification hopes on the line. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini will be without Lorenzo Pellegrini, who is sidelined for the match at the Bentegodi, though the captain will travel with the squad alongside Ndicka. French midfielder Koné has recovered fully and will be available for selection. This final fixture determines whether Roma secures European football for next season. Gasperini addressed the magnitude of the occasion in his pre-match press conference, emphasizing that qualification depends solely on Roma's performance. "The Champions depends on us," the coach stated, signaling that there are no excuses ahead of the decisive encounter. The manager also referenced the club's ownership, though specifics remain unclear. On the transfer front, Roma are tracking several targets: attacker Summerville's stock is rising, while Greenwood remains the primary ambition. Additional squad-building activity may involve Salah, though details remain unclear. Separately, the municipal council has approved an agreement with a special commissioner regarding stadium matters, with further developments expected soon.

Roma travel to Verona for Serie A Matchday 38 in a fixture with significant implications for their season. A victory would secure Champions League qualification and end a taboo that has lasted more than seven years. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini intends to field his strongest lineup from the outset to control the match early and eliminate pressure on the team. The result of other matches will be immaterial if Roma secure all three points in Verona. The match carries heavyweight significance for both the club's fanbase and ownership. The Friedkin Group have been anticipating this decisive moment throughout the campaign. Roma enter the fixture with clarity of purpose: qualification is within reach with one performance. Gasperini's strategy prioritizes imposing Roma's game on their opponents and preventing Verona from gaining momentum early in the contest. Verona vs Roma will be broadcast exclusively on DAZN with kickoff at 20:45. Viewers can access the match via the DAZN app on smart TVs, gaming consoles (Xbox or PlayStation), or streaming devices including Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast, and TIM VISION Box. Live updates will be available on Forzaroma.info and across social media platforms including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Ahead of Verona's fixture against Roma, Verona's coach Sammarco opted not to participate in the customary pre-match press conference, choosing silence instead of public statements. The decision marks an unusual approach to typical pre-game media duties. Details regarding the reasoning behind this choice remain unclear. Roma will travel to face Verona in what shapes as a significant Serie A encounter.

Hellas Verona manager Paolo Sammarco will not hold a press conference ahead of tomorrow's final-day Serie A match against Roma at the Bentegodi. The Verona club has opted to skip the media briefing entirely, with only a closed-door training session scheduled for the afternoon at Sporting Center Paradiso in Castelnuovo del Garda. The fixture carries significant importance for Roma, who are chasing a return to the Champions League after seven years away. A victory would secure their place in European football's premier club competition. Verona, by contrast, have already been relegated from Serie A and are playing out the remainder of the season with their fate already determined. The decision to avoid a press conference is unusual and marks Sammarco's continued silence with the media surrounding this match. Roma's pursuit of a Champions League spot on the final day represents a critical moment in their season, making tomorrow's trip to Verona pivotal for their continental ambitions.

Roma face Verona away at the Bentegodi in a crucial match for their Champions League ambitions. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly weighing tactical options, including the possibility of deploying a three-pronged attacking formation. The fixture represents an important moment in Roma's season, with the manager expected to make key selection decisions. Specific squad details remain unclear, though the focus appears to be on optimizing Roma's attacking approach as they pursue their European objectives.

AS Roma travels to the Stadio Bentegodi to face already-relegated Hellas Verona in what the club views as a decisive match during the Friedkin Group's tenure. The away fixture carries the weight of a final, marking the third such pivotal contest of the current ownership period. Roma are treating the match with utmost importance despite Verona's mathematical elimination from top-flight survival, reflecting the club's push for a meaningful end to the season. The specific context and implications for Roma's campaign remain unclear from the available information.

AS Roma face their final Serie A match of the season against Hellas Verona with several key players unavailable. Lorenzo Pellegrini will miss the trip to the Bentegodi stadium due to a flexor muscle injury still being managed, while Tsimikas is sidelined by flu. Gianluca Mancini is carrying an ankle problem but is expected to feature. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini may consider tactical changes following Roma's improved performance in the recent derby, potentially preferring El Aynaoui over Koné in midfield. Meanwhile, the club continues to explore attacking reinforcements, with interest reportedly extending beyond primary targets to include alternative options. The midfield situation has also drawn attention, with discussions ongoing regarding potential personnel shifts. Mancini addressed the importance of European competition, stating: "I know that it is important for the squad and for Roma to qualify for and play in the Champions League. And I think that when I do or if we do, or if we have the opportunity to do so, I know that people will remember me because I can enter into history. I know that a lot of time has passed since the last time." The final match carries significance in Roma's push for continental football next season.

Roma face Hellas Verona in a crucial fixture as the club pursues European qualification. Paulo Dybala is central to Roma's hopes, tasked with delivering the creativity and skill needed to overcome a historical poor record against the Scaligeri. Roma's seasonal ambitions and push for continental football depend significantly on Dybala's performance and contributions in the coming matches. The fixture represents an important opportunity to shift momentum in the campaign.

Roma travel to Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi to face relegated Hellas Verona in a crucial Serie A fixture that could secure their first Champions League qualification since 2017–18. Gian Piero Gasperini's side sit fourth, two points clear of Como and Juventus, following a morale-boosting 2–0 Derby della Capitale win over Lazio last weekend. Roma have won four consecutive league matches, three by multi-goal margins, and scored in six of their last seven games, positioning themselves strongly for the run-in. Verona's season has been disastrous, finishing with the second-lowest point tally in the three-points-per-win era (21 points). Despite showing late-season resilience with draws against Inter and Juventus, the home side has failed to score in five consecutive matches at the Bentegodi and have not found the net at home since early March. Roma's last two Serie A visits to the ground resulted in defeats, and the visitors suffered a seven-game winless away run before recent wins over Bologna and Parma. Roma will be without starting center-back Evan Ndicka and wingback Wesley Franca (suspended following a red card in last weekend's derby). Kostas Tsimikas is expected to replace Franca on the left flank. Verona will miss midfielder Roberto Gagliardini due to suspension and possibly Daniel Mosquera through injury. Roma are expected to secure victory given their current form and Verona's attacking struggles.

Roma face Hellas Verona in a crucial match with Champions League qualification on the line. The fixture will pit Gianluca Mancini, Roma's current defender, against Nelsson, his former defensive partner who now plays for Verona. The two centre-backs previously worked together in Roma's backline and will meet as opponents in what could prove decisive for Roma's European ambitions. The outcome of this match may determine whether Roma secures a top-four finish and direct entry into the Champions League.

Roma will depend on their attacking trio of Donyell Malen, Paulo Dybala and Matías Soulé in an upcoming match at Verona, with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini selecting the three players to carry the team's hopes in what is described as a crucial ninety minutes for the season. The match represents a significant moment for Roma, with Gasperini tasking his quality attacking players to secure a result in difficult circumstances.

AS Roma faces significant disciplinary consequences following the heated Derby della Capitale in Serie A's 37th round. The Sports Judge handed Wesley a one-match suspension for an incident in the second half, ruling him out of Roma's final fixture at Hellas Verona. The Brazilian winger was also fined €10,000 after striking an opponent in the face without causing injury. Nicolò Rovella received identical punishment—one-game ban and €10,000 fine—for his involvement in the same confrontation. The disciplinary blow extends beyond Wesley's absence. Two Roma players entered the warned list following the derby: Mario Hermoso received his ninth yellow card of the season, while Stephan El Shaarawy collected his fourth. Both now join Gianluca Mancini on Roma's caution list, meaning any further booking at Verona would trigger automatic suspension. This creates a significant strategic challenge for head coach Gian Piero Gasperini as Roma prepares for what is described as a crucial final match of the campaign. The disciplinary situation also carries implications for potential sanctions carrying into the next season. The Sports Judge Gerardo Mastrandrea issued the official decisions following the intense encounter.