Roma starting XI (3-4-2-1): Svilar, Hermoso, Mancini, N’Dicka, Wesley, Cristante, Koné, Angelino (subbed for Rensch), Soulè (subbed for Dybala), El Shaarawy (subbed for El Aynaoui), Ferguson (subbed for Dovbyk)

Bench: Vasquez, Zelezny, Ghilardi, Pisilli, Baldanzi

Goals: Wesley 53’

Bologna starting XI (4-2-3-1): Skorupski, De Silvestri (subbed for Zortea), Casale (subbed for Vitik), Lucumì, Lykogiannis, Freuler (subbed for Bernardeschi), Pobega, Orsolini, Odgaard (subbed for Fabbian), Cambiaghi, Immobile (subbed for Castro)

Bench: Ravaglia, Pessina, Posch, Heggem, Corazza, Moro, Ferguson, Karlsson, Dallinga, Dominguez

The decisive moment came in the 53rd minute. Brazilian wing-back Wesley Franca, making his league debut, pressed high, seized on a poor back pass and calmly slotted past the goalkeeper. His goal sealed three points on opening day and lifted the crowd to its feet.

Roma began with intensity. Gasperini’s trademark high press and wide attacking play were evident from the start. Bryan Cristante went close with a first-half header that struck the crossbar, while debutant Evan Ferguson twice tested Bologna inside the opening quarter of an hour.

The Irish striker, signed from Brighton, impressed with his movement and link-up play. Though he did not score, he was voted Player of the Match by supporters.

Cristante and new arrival Manu Koné drove Roma forward throughout. Koné’s energy ensured Bologna were rarely able to settle, while Cristante provided balance between defence and attack.

At the back, Roma were solid. Ndicka, Mancini and Hermoso kept Bologna’s forwards quiet, allowing goalkeeper Rui Patrício a comfortable afternoon. The clean sheet underlined Gasperini’s early success in blending attacking intent with defensive organisation.

The victory marked Roma’s first opening-day home win in three years. Gasperini praised his players’ intensity but urged patience as the team adapts to his system.

Roma travel to Pisa next weekend, aiming to continue their strong start.