AS Roma secured their place in the Europa League knockout rounds with an impressive 2-0 victory over VfB Stuttgart at the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday night. The Italian side's win was powered by a stunning brace from young midfielder Niccolo Pisilli, who delivered a performance that will live long in the memory of Roma faithful.
The breakthrough came just before half-time when Pisilli demonstrated his remarkable composure and technique. Running onto an inspired through ball from Matias Soule down the right flank, the 20-year-old opted against the conventional square pass and instead surprised Stuttgart goalkeeper Alexander Nubel with a strike arrowed into the far top corner from a seemingly impossible angle.
Roma dominated proceedings throughout the second half but had to wait until deep into stoppage time to seal the victory. In the 93rd minute, Paulo Dybala showcased his sublime vision and technical mastery. Gathering a pull-back from the by-line with his back to goal, the Argentine playmaker instinctively located Pisilli and rolled the ball back for the midfielder to thunderously smash into the roof of the net from ten yards out.
The result lifts Roma into sixth place in the Europa League table, mathematically guaranteeing them at least a play-off spot with one matchday remaining. More importantly, victory keeps alive their hopes of finishing in the top eight and securing direct passage to the round of 16.
Speaking after the match, Pisilli expressed his delight at contributing to such a crucial victory. The academy product told Sky Sport Italia that scoring for Roma fills him with immense pride, while emphasizing that the team desperately needed the three points at this stage of the competition. Coach Gasperini praised the youngster, saying Pisilli already proved his worth last season and has improved significantly.
For Stuttgart, the defeat represents a significant blow to their Europa League ambitions. The German side now face an anxious wait to discover their fate, with their position in the table leaving them vulnerable heading into the final matchday.
Roma will complete their Europa League group phase campaign with a trip to face Panathinaikos in Athens, knowing that victory would almost certainly secure automatic qualification for the last 16.
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