Jose Mourinho takes blame for Real Madrid tactical disaster before subs spark stunning seven-minute comeback at Roma
Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid secured a dramatic 4-3 comeback victory against Roma in the Champions League after a tactical shift in the second half. Mourinho took responsibility for the team's poor start while praising the intensity of his former club.
Why it matters
The match highlights the tactical volatility of high-stakes European football and the emotional narrative of a manager returning to a former club.
Jose Mourinho experienced a rollercoaster of emotions on his return to the Stadio Olimpico as Real Madrid produced a breathless late turnaround to defeat Roma. The Portuguese manager admitted he was tactically outclassed for large spells before his second-half alterations inspired a dramatic 4-3 victory in the Champions League league phase.
Madrid looked destined for defeat after falling 3-1 behind against Gian Piero Gasperini's resilient side. However, a rapid seven-minute blitz completely flipped the European encounter on its head.
Mourinho turned to his bench near the hour mark, introducing Endrick and Arda Guler, followed later by Carlos Espi and Bernardo Silva. The sweeping changes instantly revitalised the Spanish giants.
Also covering this story
6 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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