Como manager Cesc Fabregas has revealed that his side’s tactical approach in their goalless Serie A draw against Roma was inspired by Inter Milan’s previous encounter with the Giallorossi. The stalemate at the Stadio Sinigaglia saw both teams share the points, with Roma playing over 30 minutes with ten men.
Fabregas on Como’s Tactical Approach
Fabregas expressed his satisfaction with Como’s performance, particularly before Roma’s Donyell Malen received a red card. He noted that it takes significant character to challenge Roma, emphasising the need for courage to play the ball rather than solely focusing on tactics.
The Como coach admitted some regret that his team could not capitalise on their numerical advantage after Malen’s dismissal. He felt Como should have shown more patience and moved the ball faster to make the most of the extra man. Despite this, Fabregas praised his young team for preventing counter-attack situations.
Fabregas also explained his decision to start Maxence Caqueret, stating the player deserved the opportunity regardless of tactical positioning, having trained exceptionally well.
Gasperini Defends Malen and Criticises Refereeing
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini defended Donyell Malen following his straight red card in the second half. Gasperini insisted there was no intent to injure an opponent, describing the incident as a reaction after being held back. He criticised the use of freeze-frames in refereeing, arguing that football is about actions, not still images, which he believes distort reality.
Gasperini felt the red card ‘spoiled’ what he considered a beautiful game. Despite the numerical disadvantage, he expressed satisfaction with his team’s organised defence to secure a point. He also praised Paulo Dybala’s performance, particularly after Roma were reduced to ten men, highlighting his intelligence and quality in difficult situations.
Match Incidents and Roma’s Next Challenge
The match saw several notable incidents, including the red card for Donyell Malen, who was dismissed for a lunge over the ball that caught Bruno Kaiki. Additionally, the referee Michael Fabbri had to be replaced in the final 20 minutes due to a knee injury, with fourth official Simone Sozza taking over.
For Roma, Pierluigi Gollini made his first Serie A appearance in two years, replacing the injured Mile Svilar in goal. Gasperini commended Gollini’s performance, noting his alertness and accuracy. Roma’s next fixture is a Champions League clash against Real Madrid at the Stadio Olimpico, a team Gasperini described as champions with an outstanding transfer window.