A Brilliant Start Secures Roma’s Victory
Matias Soulé’s historic goal set the tone for Roma’s crucial Serie A match against Empoli, leading to a 1-0 win that kept the Giallorossi’s momentum intact. The 22-second strike, the fastest ever scored by Roma in Serie A, was a testament to the team’s sharpness and determination. Fresh from a dramatic Europa League victory over Athletic Club, Roma brought a rotated squad to the Carlo Castellani Stadium, with Paulo Dybala and Zeki Celik among the nine players left at home. This strategic move was necessitated by the upcoming second leg in Bilbao, but it did not dampen the team’s resolve or spirit. Despite Empoli’s recent success in the Coppa Italia, where they knocked Juventus out to reach the semi-finals, their Serie A form had been lackluster, with only three draws from their last 12 matches. The home side also faced several absences, including Youssef Maleh, Tino Anjorin, Ardian Ismajli, Mattia Viti, Ola Solbakken, Nicolas Haas, Szymon Zurkowski, Tyronne Ebuehi, Saba Sazonov, and Pietro Pellegri.
Early Pressure and Historic Heroics
The match began with Roma exerting immediate pressure, and it paid off in spectacular fashion. Within the first 22 seconds, Lorenzo Colombo’s loose ball in midfield set up a swift counterattack. Anass Salah-Eddine’s well-timed cross from the left flank bypassed Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Soulé, showing remarkable composure, took a touch just inside the area and fired a left-footed shot into the back of the net. This goal was not just a quick opener; it etched Soulé’s name in Roma’s annals as the scorer of the fastest Serie A goal in the club’s history. The early breakthrough energized Roma, and they continued to press forward, with Mile Svilar having to make a crucial save to deny Mattia De Sciglio’s low shot early in the game.
Missed Opportunities and Goalkeeper Heroics
Roma had several chances to extend their lead, but they squandered a few golden opportunities. On 36 minutes, Lorenzo Pellegrini displayed exceptional skill by controlling a tricky ball and setting up Eldor Shomurodov. However, the forward, in his eagerness to score, hit the crossbar from just nine yards out. Moments later, Manu Kone broke free on a through ball from Soulé, dribbling around Marco Silvestri but missing the target from a difficult angle, hitting the outside of the near post. Shomurodov’s misfortune continued when he nodded a Soulé cross directly at Silvestri’s legs from point-blank range. Despite these missed chances, Roma’s dominance was evident, and Silvestri’s saves kept Empoli in the game, adding to the tension and drama.
Second Half Drama and Resilience
The second half saw Roma maintain their control, albeit with a few nervy moments. Marco Silvestri once again proved his worth, making a challenging one-handed save on Pellegrini’s header into the ground from Saud Abdulhamid’s cross. Tommaso Baldanzi, playing against his former club, also tested Silvestri with a well-placed effort. The closest Empoli came to equalizing was in the dying moments of the game when Christian Kouame’s header grazed the upright. Throughout the match, Roma’s defense, led by the experienced Mats Hummels, showed resilience and organization, effectively shutting down Empoli’s attacks and preserving the lead.
The Impact of Squad Rotation
The decision to rotate the squad, despite the allure of a strong lineup, paid off for Roma. Coach José Mourinho made nine changes, ensuring that key players like Dybala and Celik would be fresh for the important Europa League match. The strategy worked as the team’s energy levels remained high, and the substitutes brought in were able to maintain the team’s intensity and tactical discipline. Soulé’s early goal was a perfect reward for the team’s focus and preparation, and it underscored the depth and quality of Roma’s squad. The win not only kept Roma’s domestic ambitions alive but also provided a significant morale boost heading into the midweek fixture in Bilbao.
Final Reflections and Looking Ahead
In the end, Roma’s 1-0 victory over Empoli was a combination of historical significance, missed opportunities, and solid defensive play. Soulé’s record-breaking goal will be remembered for years to come, and the team’s ability to secure three points despite several changes to the lineup is a testament to their versatility and strength. Empoli, while resilient, could not find a way past Roma’s well-organized defense, and their recent form in Serie A proved to be a challenge. As Roma now prepare for the crucial Europa League second leg, the confidence gained from this win will be invaluable. The team will look to carry forward this momentum and secure another significant victory in Bilbao, aiming to maintain their impressive run of form both domestically and internationally.
