Gasperini: Roma Outclassed Madrid Before Late Collapse
Speaking to press in Madrid following the conclusion of the Champions League fixture on October 15, 2026, AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini addressed the dramatic sequence of events that saw his side surrender a 3-1 advantage in the final seven minutes.
The Italian coach faced media inquiries regarding the 4-3 defeat, defending his team’s overall display while directly confronting external assessments regarding their physical conditioning.
AS Roma
clubGasperini Points to Real Madrid Desperation During Late Comeback
Addressing the tactical landscape of the closing stages, Gasperini noted how the Spanish side altered their structure to salvage the result.
“Without a doubt, we had plenty of space to attack in open play. It’s clear they were desperate and threw every striker they had into the fray, sending them forward,” said Gasperini. “At that moment, Real Madrid only had that one weapon; they had no other options. They did well, even if it hurts us.”
The manager expressed acute frustration over how easily the decisive goals arrived after establishing a two-goal cushion, noting that defensive lapses completely dismantled an otherwise disciplined performance.
Gian Piero Gasperini
coachGasperini Hits Back at Physicality Claims After Exhaustion Accusations
Turning to post-match assessments regarding squad fitness levels, Gasperini rejected suggestions that his players faded down the stretch.
“Mourinho says we were tired? If anyone was exhausted, it was them. We could have scored many more goals; they were outclassed in everything.”
The remarks underline the friction following a match where AS Roma held control for more than eighty minutes before the late turnaround altered the group stage landscape.
Mundo Deportivo provided coverage of the post-match press conference.