Roma Bounces Back With 4-0 Victory Over Slovan Bratislava in Champions League

Roma secured its first Champions League victory of the season on Tuesday with a dominant 4-0 win over Slovan Bratislava at the Stadio Olimpico. Bouncing back from a difficult 4-3 defeat against Real Madrid the week prior, manager Gian Piero Gasperini's side put on a commanding performance to take control of the match from the opening whistle.

Playing without the injured Paulo Dybala, Gasperini gave an opportunity to young Portuguese prospect Rodrigo Mora while welcoming team captain Lorenzo Pellegrini back to the starting lineup. The tactical adjustments paid off quickly as Roma completely dictated the pace, limiting the Slovakian side managed by Yaya Touré from establishing any offensive rhythm.

The breakthrough arrived in the 21st minute from a set-piece situation. Pellegrini delivered a precise free-kick into the box, allowing Daniele Ghilardi to head the ball down for Mario Hermoso, who finished from close range to put the Giallorossi ahead. The goal marked Hermoso's second of the season across all competitions and set the tone for a comprehensive evening.

Roma doubled their lead shortly before halftime in the 39th minute. Donyell Malen broke down the left side and fired a curling shot that goalkeeper Dominik Takac could only parry into the path of Nahuel Molina, who easily finished at the back post to claim his first goal for the club.

The Italian side continued their onslaught after the interval. In the 52nd minute, 22-year-old academy product Niccolò Pisilli capitalized on defensive hesitation to fire a powerful shot under the crossbar, extending the lead to 3-0. Just minutes later, Malen added the fourth from the penalty spot after Wesley Franca was brought down inside the area by César Blackman.

The victory successfully revives Roma's European journey following an opening draw against Fenerbahçe and the painful late collapse against Real Madrid, where they surrendered three goals in the final seven minutes. Tuesday's result leaves Slovan Bratislava at the bottom of the Champions League standings as Roma turns its attention toward an upcoming away fixture against Manchester United at Old Trafford.