AS Roma - Real Madrid (1-1): Mbappé responds to De Roon in an intense first half

AS Roma and Real Madrid go into the break level at 1-1 after a highly entertaining first half

Europe Today at 16:03

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AS Roma - Real Madrid (1-1): Mbappé responds to De Roon in an intense first half

14.10.26 FT Champions League

Roma

Real Madrid

Roma put Real Madrid under pressure before Kylian Mbappé equalised, scoring in his 100th European appearance.

AS Roma and Real Madrid are level at 1-1 at half-time at the Stadio Olimpico after a lively first half on matchday two of the Champions League.

Driven on by a particularly vocal crowd, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side took control from the opening minutes. Mario Hermoso quickly forced Thibaut Courtois into action, underlining Roma’s much more aggressive start compared with the Madrid side.

De Roon rewards Roma’s dominance

Roma nevertheless suffered an early setback in the 16th minute. After picking up an injury during an acceleration, Manu Koné was forced to leave the pitch and was replaced by Niccolò Pisilli.

Four minutes later, the Italians found a way through. After Paulo Dybala won the ball back, Matías Soulé picked out Marten de Roon in the centre, around 20 metres from goal. Without taking a touch, the Dutchman unleashed a clean strike that beat Courtois to put Roma ahead: 1-0 in the 20th minute.

Mbappé responds in his 100th Champions League appearance

Real Madrid were quick to react, however. In the 25th minute, Kylian Mbappé took advantage of a poor intervention from Hermoso to race towards the box. The Frenchman then unleashed a powerful, dipping shot from the edge of the area that nestled under Pierluigi Gollini’s crossbar.

It was a symbolic goal, as the forward was making his 100th Champions League appearance. Thanks to the equaliser, Real recovered after a difficult start and gradually brought the contest back into balance.

At half-time, the score remains 1-1. Roma showed that they could genuinely unsettle Real Madrid, while José Mourinho’s men still have another 45 minutes to make the difference at the Stadio Olimpico.

Also read: AS Roma - Real Madrid: Official line-ups announced, including Yan Diomandé!