Roma raced to a two-goal lead early on against Empoli as they secured a 2-0 win, with Paulo Dybala providing two assists from dead balls.
Roger Ibanez and Tammy Abraham were able to turn home the corners after just six minutes of action in Rome to put Jose Mourinho’s back on track following their defeat away to Napoli last weekend. Empoli tried to fight back towards the end of the first half but Roma defended well to secure all three points.
So, let’s get into our Roma player ratings for their comfortable victory over Empoli, starring a strong display by Argentinian forward Dybala.
Roma: (3-4-2-1)
Rui Patricio – 6.5
Made a couple of saves and did well whenever called upon. Had little to do for the most part, however.
Gianluca Mancini – 7.5
Made a good block to deny Francesco Caputo who had found himself in a dangerous position in the box. Good in possession and excellent defensively, making four interceptions.
Chris Smalling – 7.5
Looked good in the air and didn’t put a foot wrong, making a number of clearances and interceptions.
Roger Ibanez – 8
Gave Roma the lead in the opening minutes with a towering header following a Paulo Dybala corner. Also displayed a solid defensive showing alongside both Smalling and Mancini.
Nicola Zalewski – 7
Booked early on but kept his discipline. Made a number of interceptions and continues to perform well at wing-back for Jose Mourinho’s side.
Bryan Cristante – 7.5
Won his duels well in midfield and supplied Dybala with a good opportunity in the first half. Strong in the tackle too.
Nemanja Matic – 7
Looked strong in the midfield battle and managed to break up play, doing his usual job in the midfield. Lack of pace can still hinder him at times, nevertheless.
Stephan El Shaarawy – 7
Accurate in possession and looked solid with his performance. Rarely troubled defensively.
Lorenzo Pellegrini – 6.5
Limited influence on the match but didn’t do much wrong either. Won his duels well and also managed to win a few fouls for Roma.
Paulo Dybala – 8.5
A threat from set pieces with accurate deliveries and was able to supply both the assists for the two quick-fire goals for Roma with two impressive corners. Almost put the hosts three ahead inside just ten minutes when he entered the box but dragged his shot wide. Excellent link-up play in the approach and looked sharp.
Tammy Abraham – 7.5
Doubled the Giallorossi’s lead after finishing from close range from a Dybala corner. Posed the Empoli defense questions both with his pace and aerial ability and had good energy to his game.