Roma’s third friendly match of July ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat against Toulouse, highlighting both the team’s potential and their ongoing search for a more potent attack. While the squad, managed by De Rossi, demonstrated solid gameplay and created several opportunities—especially in the second half—they couldn’t find the back of the net, continuing a trend from previous matches against Latina and Kosice where they found themselves trailing.
This match was the first significant challenge for the giallorossi, played behind closed doors in the scorching heat of Trigoria after their fixture against Ancona was canceled due to safety concerns. Notable players Dybala, Smalling, and Abraham returned to the pitch, while new signing Dahl is set to make his debut against Olympiacos on August 3.
In the first half, De Rossi placed trust in young Pisilli, pairing him with Le Fée and Baldanzi, who was used as a central midfielder, often interchanging with Zalewski. However, Baldanzi struggled to make a significant impact, while Zalewski proved to be a bright spot, drawing applause from the bench for his composure and contributions. Dybala operated as a false nine, flanked by Zalewski and Joao Costa in a 4-2-3-1 formation that seems to define De Rossi’s new-look Roma.
Ten minutes into the match, Joao Costa posed the first threat with a good solo effort that unfortunately struck Cresswell. The team focused on building up play from the back, aiming to assert their technical superiority. But it was Toulouse that broke the deadlock in the 35th minute, with Gboho taking advantage of a rebound from Svilar to score.
The second half saw the introduction of Smalling and Abraham, both of whom are reportedly on the market. Despite their presence, Toulouse remained dangerous, forcing Svilar into a close-range save against Skytta, while Roma generated a few chances through Angelino and Abraham but lacked the finishing touch. Smalling had a scary moment when he landed awkwardly after an aerial challenge but thankfully resumed playing without issue.
As the match progressed, a flurry of substitutions introduced younger talents who invigorated Roma’s play. Zalewski came close to scoring with a well-placed shot that narrowly missed. With five minutes to go, Darboe unleashed a spectacular shot from distance, only to be denied by a diving save from Lacombe. Zalewski and Abraham also had attempts, but precision evaded them.
In a dramatic finale, Smalling rattled the post with a well-timed run on a corner from Zalewski. Despite their efforts and showing signs of fitness, Roma couldn’t find an equalizer. The focus now shifts to their final friendly in Italy against Olympiacos on August 3, after which they will travel to England for matches against Coventry and Leicester, possibly with a new striker in the squad.
