Key Takeaways:
- AS Roma recorded a 1-0 win against US Lecce at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A, ending a five-match victory drought in all competitions
- Substitute Robinho Vaz scored the decisive goal following Mario Hermoso’s assist, shortly after entering the contest in the second half
- The result sees Roma extend their unbeaten home league run to eight games, while Lecce drop into the relegation zone on goal difference with eight fixtures remaining
Match Overview
AS Roma managed to halt a troubling sequence of two draws and three defeats across all competitions as they overcame US Lecce 1-0 in their Serie A clash at the Stadio Olimpico. The recent Europa League disappointment against Bologna and persistent struggles in the race for Champions League qualification had left the Giallorossi facing mounting pressure. The visit of a Lecce side fighting to beat the drop proved to be the perfect opportunity to get their campaign back on track.
⏱ | Roma win at the Olimpico! DAJE🐺#ASRoma #RomaLecce pic.twitter.com/4imsdS4SH8
— AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) March 22, 2026
First Half: Dominance Without Reward
Despite dictating play throughout the opening 45 minutes, Roma found it difficult to truly trouble Wladimiro Falcone in the Lecce goal. Donyell Malen emerged as the hosts’ primary attacking outlet, with his standout chance seeing him shoot over from inside the box. His pace, though, made him a focal point and at times an overly predictable option for the home side. Roma thought they had broken the deadlock when Nicolò Pissili found the net midway through the half, but the goal was chalked off due to Lorenzo Pellegrini being caught offside in the build-up. Lecce, for their part, offered little going forward in the first period.
Second Half: Tactical Changes Pay Off
The visitors began the second half brightly, with Oumar Ngom forcing a fumble from Mile Svilar just two minutes after the interval, and Tiago Gabriel heading the subsequent corner just over the bar. Roma’s head coach Gian Piero Gasperini sought to inject more urgency by introducing Robinho Vaz from the bench – a move that paid dividends. Mario Hermoso, marauding down the left, delivered an accurate cross to the back post, where Vaz rose to head in the decisive goal.
Late Drama and Home Resilience
With the advantage, Roma still showed signs of nerves. Mario Hermoso was called upon to execute a crucial goal-line clearance, denying Santiago Pierotti’s powerful header and preserving the lead. Vaz had another opportunity to double the scoreline, volleying over the bar with one of Roma’s few genuine second-half chances. Despite Lecce’s intent, the visitors could not apply sustained pressure, allowing Roma to see out the result and maintain their strong home form in the league.
