Gian Piero Gasperini highlighted the atmosphere surrounding Roma’s Champions League meeting with Real Madrid, while insisting his players must trust their own ability once the match begins.
Speaking to Prime Video shortly before kick-off at the Stadio Olimpico, the coach described the occasion as one the city had been waiting years to experience again.
“The City Has Been Waiting for Years”
Asked about his desire to work in a passionate environment when he arrived at Roma, Gasperini said the evening offered further confirmation.
“There was never any doubt! Matches like this have been missing for a long time; the city has been waiting for years. Tonight, we have a formidable opponent.”
The Giallorossi entered the encounter with the backing of an expectant Olimpico, but Gasperini stressed that the atmosphere must complement the team’s work on the pitch.
“We know that, but then it’s eleven against eleven on the field. We will rely on our own strengths, and around us we have incredible support.”
Roma Must Defend Together Against Madrid’s Pace
Gasperini also addressed the challenge facing his defenders against Madrid’s attack, responding with a laugh when asked whether they had managed to sleep before the game.
“Yes! These are tests against the best in the world. Their speed will be challenging if you leave spaces… We will have to be good individually and collectively.”
His message underlined the importance of both winning individual battles and maintaining the organisation needed to limit Madrid’s opportunities.
Gasperini Wants Roma to Take the Initiative
Asked about Roma’s identity in matches of this magnitude, Gasperini emphasised the ambition to challenge the opposition and create problems.
That approach reflected his pre-match message: embrace the occasion, draw energy from the supporters and give Roma the opportunity to measure themselves against elite European opposition.
Source: Prime Video.
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