Roma Player Ratings vs Como: Super Subs Inspire Comeback

Roma seized a numerical advantage at the Stadio Olimpico to beat Serie A newcomers Como 2-1 in a potentially pivotal league clash. Claudio Ranieri’s charges avenged an identical defeat in December’s reverse fixture to move within four points from the European qualification spots.

Scoring chances were at a premium in the first half, yet Como entered halftime on the front foot. Lucas Da Cunha pounced on a delightful through ball from Maximo Perrone to beat Mile Svilar in a one-on-one and put Cesc Fabregas’ side in front.

Roma didn’t fare well in the opening 45 minutes, prompting Ranieri to make a double change at the start of the second half. Substitutions worked well for the Giallorossi as they flew out of traps before finding an all-important equalizer through Alexis Saelemaekers.

The Milan loanee launched a low shot toward Jean Butez, yet it took an awkward deflection and tricked the Como goalkeeper. Shortly after drawing level, Roma went a man up as Marc Oliver Kempf picked up a second yellow midway through the second half.

Artem Dovbyk scored off the bench after a superb first-time cross from Devyne Rensch to complete the turnaround. Roma players helped Ranieri celebrate his ‘Manager of the Month’ award in style and significantly bolstered their chances of securing a coveted European finish.

Roma (3-4-2-1)

Mile Svilar – 6.5

He couldn’t have done anything to thwart Da Cunha’s shot, but he was perfectly positioned to deny Patrick Cutrone early in the second half, handing Roma a crucial boost.

Zeki Celik – 7

Played out of position, the Turkish defender excelled as a center-back and even picked up an assist to initiate the comeback.

Gianluca Mancini – 6

His atypically poor anticipation left Da Cunha with a highway toward Svilar’s goal, while he also earned a yellow card after losing his temper at the start of the second half.

Evan Ndicka – 6.5

Far more solid than Mancini, the Ivorian held up his end of the bargain against Gabriel Strefezza and looked dominant in aerial duels.

Angelino – 6

Roma desperately lacked his bursting runs down the left flank in the first half, but he grew into the contest and became a permanent threat as the game progressed.

Leandro Paredes – 6.5

The Argentine midfielder had a quiet first half but gained a foothold after the break to pull all the strings and dictate the tempo with inch-perfect passes.

Manu Kone – 5.5

It was one of his most disappointing performances in the Roma shirt, as he seemed sluggish and indecisive on the ball.

Matias Soule – 6

Deployed as a right wingback, the youngster had a forgettable first half and failed to show much before being replaced.

Lorenzo Pellegrini – 6

The captain was supposed to be the playmaker and orchestrate Roma’s attacks, but nothing went his way, forcing Ranieri to leave him in the dressing room at halftime.

Paulo Dybala – 6.5

Despite failing to score or assist, the diminutive magician drew Kempf’s second yellow card, which proved decisive in the end.

Eldor Shomurodov – 3

Taken off at halftime after barely touching the ball in a rare start for Roma this season.

Substitutes

Stephan El Shaarawy – 6.5

Bryan Cristante – 6

Alexis Saelemaekers – 7

The Belgian’s renaissance under Ranieri continues. Though he netted a fortunate goal, his tremendous effort on the right side gave Roma’s comeback legs.

Artem Dovbyk – 7

It was a simple tap-in, but it takes nothing away from his contribution to this important triumph.

Devyne Rensch – 7.5

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