Gasperini Praises Dybala’s Role as 10-Man Roma Hold Como
Roma left Como with a goalless draw after playing more than 30 minutes with 10 men, and Gian Piero Gasperini singled out Paulo Dybala for the work that helped protect the point.
Donyell Malen’s dismissal forced Roma into a defensive reshuffle, with Dybala asked to remain high up the pitch while also helping the side escape pressure. Gasperini said the Argentine’s response altered his intended substitution plan.
Quick facts
- Roma drew 0-0 away to Como in Serie A.
- Donyell Malen was sent off, leaving Roma a man short for over half an hour.
- Paulo Dybala stayed on despite being under consideration for substitution.
- Pierluigi Gollini made his Roma debut in place of Mile Svilar and kept a clean sheet.
- Lorenzo Pellegrini returned after six months out, while Soulé made an impact from the bench.
“Paulo was extraordinary, particularly after we went down to 10,” Gasperini said. The coach had considered introducing Mateo Castro following Malen’s red card, but decided against the change as Dybala continued to provide an outlet.
Gasperini felt Dybala was the player most affected by the altered match situation, yet praised his intelligence and willingness to deal with difficult moments. The forward remained on the field until near the end as Roma absorbed Como pressure.
Gollini was another key figure in the result. Filling in for Svilar, the goalkeeper made important interventions late in the match, including a save from Nico Paz, to secure the shutout on his first appearance for the club.
Gasperini praised Gollini’s command of his area, distribution and contribution to Roma’s counterattacks. He added that the goalkeeper was alert throughout and capable of deputising effectively for Svilar.
The match also brought Pellegrini back into action following a six-month absence. Soulé added fresh energy after his introduction as Roma saw out a demanding away fixture.
The draw keeps Roma in touch in the early Serie A table. Gasperini’s side will now prepare for their next league match, encouraged by the resilience shown at Como.
