Roma’s Gasperini continue perfect start with Soulé magic
On 30 August 2025, AS Roma secured a narrow but vital 1–0 victory over newly promoted Pisa at the Arena Garibaldi in Round Two of the Serie A 2025/2026 season.
Matías Soulé’s decisive goal, set up by Paulo Dybala and Evan Ferguson, ensured Roma's perfect start under new manager Gian Piero Gasperini continued.
Amidst a passionate crowd and a resilient showing from Pisa, this Pisa vs AS Roma match report delves into the fine margins of a compelling season opener.
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Match Overview
Goals & Scoring Timeline
55′ – Matías Soulé nets the only goal, expertly finishing a move initiated by Paulo Dybala and finished through Evan Ferguson’s hold-up play.
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Key Moments & Turning Points
Early in the match, Pisa came close to setting the tone: Henrik Meister unleashed a header that goalkeeping Ma Mile Svilar miraculously kept out, preserving Roma’s lead in confidence.
Paulo Dybala’s introduction at halftime injected creativity; soon after, he orchestrated the decisive goal by threading a pass to Ferguson, whose hold-up allowed Soulé to convert.
A disallowed second goal by Soulé—ruled out for handball—added drama but preserved the slim win.
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Standout Player Performances
Matías Soulé: Clinched the moment with composure and intelligence—winner and constant threat.
Paulo Dybala: His impact was instant—his creativity pivotal in breaking down Pisa’s low block.
Evan Ferguson: Effective off the ball, his hold-up play created openings for teammates.
Mile Svilar: Essential early heroics kept Roma in the game when Pisa surged.
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Tactical Breakdown
AS Roma (Gian Piero Gasperini) deployed his signature high-intensity, pressing structure, while managing to break through Pisa’s well-drilled low defensive block through timely changes—specifically Dybala’s introduction and integration of Soulé and Ferguson.
Pisa (Alberto Gilardino) set up compactly and defended well; they matched Roma in the opening stanza and even posed early threats, but lacked the cutting edge in the final third when it mattered most.
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Fan Reactions & Atmosphere
The Arena Garibaldi buzzed with energy, particularly as Pisani supporters revelled in their team’s spirited display. Roma fans held their breath when Soulé saw a second goal disallowed but erupted in relief and pride when the final whistle confirmed an away win.
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What This Means for the Season
AS Roma: Two wins from two underscore the early success of Gasperini’s new era. Soulé, Dybala, and Ferguson are making vital contributions, instilling belief in Roma’s positive trajectory under fresh leadership.
Pisa: Their performance reflects resilience and promise. Despite losing, they demonstrated they can compete in Serie A. They must build on this display as the season unfolds.