Gasperini hits back at Mourinho after Real Madrid comeback

After Real Madrid’s comeback, Gian Piero Gasperini responded forcefully to José Mourinho, the Madrid club’s coach. The exchange followed the teams’ match yesterday, Wednesday. Mourinho had argued that Roma failed to maintain its enthusiasm after the first hour.

Real Madrid won 4-3 after trailing by two goals in the final ten minutes. Despite their lead, the Giallorossi let a match that had seemed within their grasp slip away, with their struggles defending set pieces a major factor.

Gasperini acknowledged his side’s shortcomings: « We lacked efficiency in front of goal and were completely passive at corners. We lost a match we were leading. » But he also disputed Mourinho’s assessment: « If anyone is frustrated, it’s Roma. We outplayed them in every aspect of the game. » He said his players had been superior and should have sealed the victory before Real Madrid’s comeback. « For 80 minutes, we were superior to Real Madrid in everything, » he added.

The coach nevertheless conceded that his team had lacked character at a decisive moment. He said this kind of situation had already cost his side several times last year. Roma must also contend with injuries to important players, alongside this European disappointment.