AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini expressed his delight after a crucial 2-0 victory over Lazio in the Derby della Capitale on Sunday, 17 May 2026. The result not only secured three valuable points but also put Roma’s UEFA Champions League hopes entirely under their own control heading into the final week of the Serie A season.
The win lifted Roma into fourth place in the Serie A standings, level on points with AC Milan, tightening the race for European qualification. The situation was further boosted by Juventus suffering a surprise home defeat, which opened the door for Roma to strengthen their position inside the top four.
With only one match remaining in the season, Roma now stand on the brink of achieving their objective. They will travel to face already-relegated Verona in what could be a decisive final fixture in their Champions League qualification push.
Derby Victory That Put Roma in Control
The Derby della Capitale lived up to its reputation, delivering high intensity, physical battles, and dramatic moments. The second half saw tensions rise further, with Nicolo Rovella and Wesley both receiving red cards in a heated encounter.
Amid the chaos, Gianluca Mancini emerged as the decisive figure. The Roma defender delivered a match-winning performance, scoring twice with powerful headers from set-piece situations, proving once again how dangerous he can be in attacking dead-ball moments.
Roma’s defensive discipline and set-piece efficiency ultimately made the difference in a tightly contested derby that had significant implications for the Serie A top-four race.
Gasperini: “Everything Depends on Us Now”
After the final whistle, Gian Piero Gasperini urged calm despite the importance of the result. While acknowledging the significance of the derby win, the Roma boss stressed that the job is far from finished.
He reminded his players that one final match remains and that qualification for the Champions League is not yet guaranteed.
“We still have 90 minutes left to play. It has been an incredible league season with so many teams separated by just a few points,” Gasperini told DAZN Italia.
“Now everything depends on us, and not on our opponents anymore. We must focus completely on our target and finish what we started,” he added.
The message was clear: Roma have placed themselves in a strong position, but complacency could still cost them everything.
Gianluca Mancini Steps Up in Big Moment
One of the standout stories from the derby was the performance of Gianluca Mancini. Known primarily as a central defender, Mancini once again proved his value in both boxes by scoring two crucial goals that secured Roma’s victory.
His ability to contribute in attacking set pieces has become a major weapon for Roma this season, especially in tightly contested matches where fine margins decide the outcome.
Gasperini praised Mancini not only for his goals but also for his leadership and growing influence within the squad. The coach also highlighted Roma’s collective improvement, especially after a difficult mid-season period.
“We hope other teams might slip up, like Juventus did today, but we did our job by focusing on ourselves against a very strong Lazio side,” Gasperini explained.
“The first half was very difficult, but we broke the deadlock from a set piece and played much better after the break. I want to congratulate the players, but we must not get carried away because there is still one final step in this incredible race,” he added.
Paulo Dybala Future Becomes Key Talking Point
Beyond the derby result, Gasperini also addressed the future of Paulo Dybala, whose contract is set to expire on 30 June. The situation has become an important topic within the club as Roma look to secure continuity in their squad planning.
Despite uncertainty over his long-term future, Dybala still played a key role in the derby and continues to show commitment and professionalism on the pitch.
The presence of club ownership during the match was seen as a positive signal, potentially helping accelerate negotiations regarding his contract extension.
“It will be a matter for next week. The owners were here, fortunately, and everything can become easier if a quick response is reached,” Gasperini said optimistically.
“Both the player and the club want to continue together. I would be very happy for him and for many players whose contracts are expiring, as they have shown professionalism and love for the club,” he concluded.
One Game Left, One Goal Remaining
Roma now stand just 90 minutes away from securing their Champions League return. With momentum, confidence, and destiny firmly in their own hands, Gasperini’s side will aim to finish the job against Verona in what could define their entire season.
The equation is simple: win, and Champions League football is theirs.
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