Gian Piero Gasperini and AS Roma are celebrating their victory in the derby and the belief that their Champions League fate is now within their control, while also noting that Paulo Dybala is eager to remain with the club.
The Derby della Capitale lived up to its fiery reputation, even with an early kickoff, featuring two red cards in the second half for Nicolò Rovella and Wesley.
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The standout performer was Gianluca Mancini, who scored both goals with headers from set pieces, leading to a 2-0 win that places Roma joint third with Milan.
Gasperini Confident in Roma’s Future
ROME, ITALY – MAY 17: Coaches Maurizio Sarri of SS Lazio and Gian Piero Gasperini of AS Roma react during the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on May 17, 2026.
“We have one more match left to play. This season’s league has been remarkable, with many teams within just a few points of each other,” Gasperini mentioned to DAZN Italia.
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“We are pleased; it’s now up to us next week, not our rivals. We need to focus on achieving our goal without fail.”
With only 90 minutes remaining in this Serie A season, Roma holds its future in its hands as they prepare to face relegated Verona.
This shift in prospects comes after a unexpected 2-0 loss for Juventus at home to Fiorentina, dropping the Bianconeri to fifth place alongside Como.
“We were hopeful that others might falter; today it was Juve, but we executed well against a strong Lazio team,” Gasperini continued.
“The first half was challenging, but we broke through from a set piece and improved in the second half. I want to commend the players; however, we must not allow ourselves to be carried away by excitement, as there is one final hurdle to clear in this extraordinary pursuit.
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“We can celebrate today but must quickly shift focus to achieving what would be an amazing accomplishment for us.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 17: Gianluca Mancini of AS Roma celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match against SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico on May 17, 2026.
Mancini, who scored both goals, is a key figure for the team, having donned the Roma jersey for many seasons.
“I have always maintained that he symbolizes Roma, and this day will be a significant moment in his career. This squad features many leaders, and he is among them.
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“We faced some tough challenges this season, but the 3-3 draw with Juventus boosted our confidence in scoring goals, a struggle we faced early in the campaign. We’ve had contributions from various players to secure victories.”
ROME, ITALY – MAY 17: Matteo Cancellieri from SS Lazio challenges Paulo Dybala of AS Roma during the encounter as well.
Dybala delivered an impressive performance today, but with his contract expiring on June 30, there are questions about whether this was his last home game representing Roma.
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“We will address that next week. The owners are present, which should facilitate a resolution,” remarked Gasperini.
“Both the player and the club are keen to continue their partnership. I would be delighted for him, as well as for the other players whose contracts are nearing expiry, who have demonstrated professionalism and dedication to the club.
“We won the derby today and still have not reached our seasonal targets, but there should be no doubts about these players’ commitment.”