Hermoso and Molina put Roma in command against Slovan Bratislava

AS Roma lead Slovan Bratislava 2-0 at half-time in their third-day UEFA Champions League league-phase match at the Stadio Olimpico.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s side have controlled the opening period in front of their home supporters, with Mario Hermoso and Nahuel Molina converting Roma’s pressure into goals. Slovan, managed by Ivorian former midfielder Yaya Toure, have struggled to contain the hosts’ attacking play.

Roma made their dominance count in the 21st minute from a set-piece. Lorenzo Pellegrini delivered an excellent ball into the area, where Daniele Ghilardi rose at the far post and headed it back across goal.

Hermoso reacted quickest from close range to finish the move and give the Italian side a deserved lead. Roma had already threatened Dominik Takac’s goal several times during the early stages, and the opening goal reflected their stronger start.

The hosts continued to find space out wide, with Wesley Franca and Molina providing an outlet from the flanks. Their movement repeatedly stretched the Slovan defence and allowed Roma to maintain pressure in the final third.

Roma doubled their advantage in the 39th minute after Donyell Malen created another opening. Cutting inside from the flank, Malen found room for a shot which Takac managed to repel, but Molina had followed the play and was in position to turn the rebound into the net.

The second goal rewarded Roma’s sustained pressure before the interval and left Slovan facing a difficult second half.

Toure’s side have found it hard to play the ball out from defence or provide regular service to their attacking players. Tigran Barseghyan has had little influence during the first half and was booked for simulation in the 20th minute.

Slovan will need greater control in possession and more effective use of space on the counter-attack if they are to get back into the match.

Roma go into the break two goals ahead and within reach of their first victory of this European campaign. Gasperini’s players will nevertheless need to remain focused after half-time to prevent Slovan from mounting a comeback.