On September 27th, in the first round of the Europa League, Roma drew 1-1 with Athletic Bilbao at home. Roma’s defender Mancini was visibly frustrated by the late equalizer, stating that the team should have established a greater lead earlier and that the goal conceded should not have happened.
Mancini stated that Roma should have extended their lead earlier: “Athletic Bilbao has considerable strength and they are very fast on the field. We performed well in the first half. If Solé could have started, we could have taken an early 2-0 lead. Although he hasn’t scored yet this season, there’s no need to worry as his goal-scoring instinct is in his blood.”
Mancini also commented on the goal conceded: “It’s really frustrating to concede a goal during set-piece defense. If we had been more proactive on the field, we could have prevented this goal. We must improve in terms of details.”
Due to Roma fans still protesting the club’s dismissal of De Rossi, the attendance for this match was low. Mancini said, “I understand the fans and I am also sad about what happened. I cannot overlook the contributions De Rossi made for us. There is no doubt that he is a great coach.”
Mancini: If Solé started, Roma would have been leading early – Goal conceded from set-piece could have been avoided. Author:Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced:https://www.sportsuefa.com/football-world/mancini-if-sole-started-roma-would-have-been-leading-early-goal-conceded-from-set-piece-could-have-been-avoided.html