Roma attacker Felix Afena-Gyan paid tribute to his mother and manager Jose Mourinho following his impressive performance against Genoa.
The 18-year-old was brought on in the 74th minute, replacing Eldor Shomurodov, with the scoreboard reading 0-0. Afena-Gyan scored a brace to seal three crucial points for Roma while also becoming the first 2003-born player to score in Serie A.
After the match, the Ghanaian told DAZN: “I thank God for this opportunity he gave me, the team, the coach, the fans, players for their amazing support. I also want to say thank you Mom, she is in Ghana, I love you.”
The teenager also had some special words reserved for Mourinho, who he hugged after scoring the first goal.
“Mourinho is a great person, a great manager and a great coach,” said Afena-Gyan. “He gives you the motivation to learn every day. I am very happy he is here. Tonight is a dream come true. It was my first goal, I was hoping for a very long time. I want to continue my performance, prove myself and do more in future.”
Afena-Gyan has done very well for Roma’s U-19 team this season, netting six goals in five matches for them so far. Prior to last night’s fixture, he made two substitute appearances for the senior team. The teenager put in quite a display, with his second goal being nothing short of sensational.
After the win over Genoa, Roma are now fifth in the Serie A table, overtaking city rivals Lazio. The Giallorossi have 22 points so far, three behind fourth-placed Atalanta. Next up for Mourinho’s men, is a Conference League fixture against Zorya Luhansk.