José Mourinho accepted full responsibility for Real Madrid’s dismal performance against AS Roma in the Champions League, but he also praised his squad for staging a dramatic seven‑minute comeback that secured a 4‑3 victory. The win gave Madrid all three points in the group stage, keeping their hopes of advancing alive.
The match began poorly for the Spanish giants. Roma opened the scoring in the first half, and a second goal from Vini Júnior in the 31st minute left Madrid trailing 3‑1. Mourinho admitted that the first half was a “coach’s fault” and that the players had not lived up to expectations. He said he had been outsmarted by Roma’s manager Gian Piero Gasperini and that the tactical changes he made after the break were necessary. “Football is a 90‑minute, strategic game,” Mourinho told reporters. “The opponent was incredibly strong, and it was impossible to play at that intensity for a full 90 minutes.”
In the 59th minute, Mourinho introduced Endrick, who had replaced Vini Júnior, and Arda Güler. Both substitutes found the net before the final whistle. Endrick’s goal, a quick finish, and Güler’s second, a precise assist for a 90th‑minute header from Antonio Rüdiger, turned the game around. Madrid’s comeback was a testament to the depth of their squad and the players’ resilience.
After the match, Mourinho reflected on the frustration that had plagued the team. He acknowledged that Vini Júnior had lost a ball that allowed Roma to score again, but he also noted the player’s emotional reaction to the change. “It was tough for Vini,” Mourinho said. “He lost a ball he shouldn’t have lost, but that’s how it goes. I make mistakes, too. It’s a shame that this happened just as he was finding happiness again.” Vini Júnior later told reporters that he was angry but ultimately pleased with the result.
The atmosphere at Stadio Olimpico was electric. Before kickoff, the stadium’s announcer read out the teams and Mourinho’s name, earning a long applause from the crowd. During the first half, Roma’s ultras held up banners featuring Mourinho, including one with him holding the Conference League trophy he won in 2022. The banners celebrated his past successes with the club, noting that “whoever brings glory to Rome, Rome will honor forever.” Mourinho admitted he was “speechless” by the reception.
With the win, Real Madrid remains in the group stage race, while Roma’s victory keeps them competitive in their own group. The match’s dramatic turnaround highlights Mourinho’s willingness to make bold changes and his players’ capacity to respond under pressure. The next fixture will test whether Madrid can maintain this momentum against another top‑tier opponent.