In what proved to be a rather dramatic end to the game, Roma managed to snatch a point at the San Siro against Milan despite finding themselves 2-0 down in the last ten minutes.
Goals from Roger Ibanez and Tammy Abraham made sure that the Giallorossi put the papering over what was a very drab performance from Jose Mourinho’s side, who didn’t create anything at all in possession before the two goals went in. It is key to note that this game came after their close 1-0 win over Bologna, against whom they were saved by a last ditch Abraham header on the goalline to pick up all three points.
Roma are currently sixth in the table, three points behind Inter. While the gap isn’t much, the issues are there to be seen. They oscillate from being a team that either creates a fair bit but doesn’t convert to being a team that doesn’t create at all – as they did today. Before the Milan game, they had the best xG against tally, which shows their defensive abilities but the lack of goals makes them a side that has worries to address.
Mourinho’s back three is compact and well-oiled, with Chris Smalling usually the deepest centre-back and he is flanked by Ibanez and Gianluca Mancini. The trio works well together, with the Englishman enjoying an impressive season. Mourinho has managed to use younger players like Cristian Volpato, Benjamin Tahirovic and Edoardo Bove at the right times in midfield to cover up for injuries and absences, but they do need another midfielder even if Gini Wijnaldum returns soon.
Tammy Abraham’s underperformance is the massive concern and so are Paulo Dybala’s injuries. Nicolo Zaniolo’s inconsistencies are another big headache as his lack of form makes Roma a team that needs more goals. Lorenzo Pellegrini has been his creative self but he can only create as much.Â
While Mourinho will be proud of the fightback v Milan, he would know that issues of oscillating still exist.
Â
Â
Kaustubh Pandey | GIFN
