Gian Piero Gasperini fires back at Jose Mourinho after Roma's defeat to Real Madrid

Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has responded sharply to comments made by Jose Mourinho following his side's dramatic 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League. Despite controlling large portions of the match, Roma conceded three goals from set-pieces late in the game, leading to a bitter result.

Mourinho suggested that the Italian side had physically and mentally collapsed under pressure, stating that the players were "dead" during the final stages. Gasperini, however, offered a completely different perspective, insisting that his side were superior throughout the encounter until the late defensive lapses.

I don't think so. It seems to me that if anyone couldn't take it anymore, it was them. We could have scored a few more goals. They were outclassed in every department. They scored the goals and they rightly count, they were good at using their physicality. For the rest, they certainly weren't up to the task. Gian Piero Gasperini

The defeat was further marred by physical setbacks for key players Manu Kone and Paulo Dybala. Gasperini confirmed that Kone is dealing with a muscular issue, while Dybala felt tightness in his calf, noting that such injuries are difficult to avoid in high-intensity European fixtures.

Gasperini acknowledged a recurring weakness in his squad regarding defensive vulnerabilities during set-piece situations against physically imposing opponents. He emphasized the need for his team to quickly move past the disappointment and build upon the 80 minutes of high-level football they produced before the late collapse.