This morning, in the first round of the 2025-26 Europa League, Roma defeated Nice 2-1 away, and Roma coach Gasperini was interviewed after the game.

About Roma's performance today

So far this season, we have played many games and have the advantage of being "hard to be broken by the opponent". Today we encountered some problems at the end of the game, especially the players who came on as substitutes, but the mentality of the players has always been positive.

Regarding Pelle (Pelle, nickname for Pelle), there is no doubt that his corner kick was very good tonight. In my opinion, he hasn't fully recovered from Sunday's game - and that's because he hasn't been able to play for several months, his physical fitness and form have been affected. Compared to the previous Roman derby, he has struggled tonight.

Does Roma need to focus on polishing forward players?

Yes, but not just the forwards, our entire offensive end needs to be improved, and we cannot just focus on the center position. Dovbik is gradually improving in terms of physical fitness, and we all need to improve to make them more threatening by creating the best conditions for the strikers.

What contributions can Zimikas bring to Roma?

Roma has many games to play. In Zimikas' position, we also have Angelino. Both players are very reliable. Angelino has also experienced a period of absence. Both of them have excellent passing and similar characteristics. They have outstanding abilities in this position. I need to let them rotate.

Did Picily's immaturity almost cost Roma the heavy price?

In football matches, the direction of the game can often be changed in one moment, and the game must be persisted until the last moment. This episode that happened tonight was avoidable, but we have a very solid and highly competitive core lineup that now only needs to get these players into the team better — especially to learn from those who have more stable chances of playing.

Have you looked back at the penalty screen of today's penalty kick?

I didn't watch it back, but I remember that scene very clearly. That offense was over at that time, and it was obvious that it was an immature move. I regret Picily, but it's a high level event and players have to accumulate experience as soon as possible and we don't have much time to waste. However, mistakes are inevitable. Although they are young players, they must learn lessons quickly.

In the 75th minute of today's game, Roma player Picili made a foul on the right side of the penalty area, and the referee awarded a penalty kick:

source:7m cn l