September 22, (THEWILL) – AS Roma began their 2023/2024 UEFA Europa League campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory away to FC Sheriff Tiraspol on Thursday evening.
The Italian side were made to work for the three points against their Moldovan opponents, but did enough to secure an important win to kick-start their European journey this season. After thrashing Empoli 7-0 last weekend in Serie A, manager Jose Mourinho opted to rotate his squad for the trip to Tiraspol. Key players like Paulo Dybala and Leandro Paredes started on the bench, with the latter replacing the injured Renato Sanches midway through the first half.
Paredes made an immediate impact, breaking the deadlock at the end of the first period with a deflected strike from the edge of the area that was recorded as a Gabi Kiki own-goal. Roma’s lead lasted just 12 minutes into the second half. Sheriff full-back Cristian Tovar took advantage of a defensive mix-up from a corner kick to smash home an equaliser.
The goal forced Mourinho’s men to adjust their approach and moments after Dybala’s introduction, they retook the lead. Romelu Lukaku opened his Roma Europa account with a classic poacher’s finish to make it 2-1. The Belgian’s goal proved decisive as Roma held on to claim an opening win, despite some late Sheriff pressure.
The victory provides an important platform for Mourinho’s side to build momentum after a slow start domestically this term. Roma now return their attention to Serie A, where they face Torino on Sunday. Sheriff host FC Zimbru on Sunday as well.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
