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Roberto De Zerbi, manager of Brighton, is aiming to secure a spot in Europe through the Premier League following his team’s elimination from the Europa League by Roma.
Unfortunately, Brighton was dealt a blow in their recent match against Rome, losing 4-0. Despite a remarkable goal by Danny Welbeck during Thursday’s game, which earned them a 1-0 victory, it was not sufficient to prolong their first ever European journey. They ultimately endured a 4-1 loss on aggregate.
De Zerbi remarked: “We witnessed the true ability of Brighton today and our team displayed immense pride. I am truly proud because on the field, I saw 11 players with the same skill as Roberto.”
I was confident in my players’ ability to bounce back because they possess unique qualities and they were just as upset as I was after our 4-0 defeat on the road.
I am confident in my team and I am certain that we can strive towards achieving another remarkable goal. With 10 remaining matches in the league, we will put up a strong fight to secure a spot in a European tournament.
The Brighton team required a remarkable feat, as no previous team in Europa League history had recovered from losing the first leg by four goals while playing away from home to secure qualification.
Although the hosts were in control during the first half, it was Roma who scored a goal at the 23-minute mark with an impressive overhead kick by Sardar Azmoun.
Their joyous festivities were abruptly halted as the potential scoring play was unjustly negated due to a player’s raised foot, giving Brighton an opportunity to stay in the competition.
After 37 minutes, Welbeck scored for the Seagulls by receiving the ball at the center of the Roma half and passing it to Pervis Estupinan before curling a shot from 20 yards into the top corner of the goal.
Roma nearly equalized in the second half when Leonardo Spinazzola, an Italian national team player, struck a shot that hit the post and crossbar.
In the second half, Ansu Fati attempted two shots that were saved, and defender Jan-Paul Van Hecke also had two missed headers. However, the home team was unable to increase their score beyond Welbeck’s goal, causing a tense ending for their opponents.
Daniele De Rossi, the manager of Roma, stated that Brighton put up a strong fight and displayed great effort.
We were aware that they would have a strong start, as they typically do and especially tonight, considering the outcome of the first game.
We must always be prepared for battle, maintaining a clear mindset. While there were moments of carelessness and some struggle, our overall performance was commendable.
The game went according to my expectations, although we missed opportunities to take advantage of attacks.
“Our team successfully made a goal, which appeared to be a valid one, but was ultimately not counted. This means that we should have secured our lead earlier in the game.”
Source: independent.co.uk
