Roma claimed a 3-0 win over Zorya to continue their perfect start to life in the Europa Conference League, and English duo Tammy Abraham and Chris Smalling made history for Jose Mourinho’s side
English duo Tammy Abraham and Chris Smalling made history for Serie A side Roma on Thursday night as Jose Mourinho’s men claimed a 3-0 Europa Conference League win away to Zorya. Indeed Roma, who are one of the heavy favourites to win the competition, claimed a very straightforward victory in Group C.
Stephan El Shaarawy opened the scoring for Mourinho’s side after just seven minutes – and the Italian star’s efforts were backed up in the second half by two goals in three minutes from Smalling and Abraham respectively.
Former Manchester United centre-back Smalling nodded home from a corner after being left unmarked.
Tammy Abraham continued his fine form in front of goalThen just two minutes later, ex-Chelsea striker Abraham pounced on a loose ball from a weak challenge to strike across the goalkeeper and effectively wrap up all three points.
The former Premier League stars’ heroics meant, for the first time in Roma’s history, two English players were on the scoresheet for the Italian giants.
Mourinho was highly complimentary of Smalling, who has only started in the Conference League this season, in his post-match press conference.
“Since he recovered he has always been available. Today, with Mancini’s absence, he could help out the defence,” said Mourinho.
“He played well with a lot of communication beyond scoring a goal which is always a nice bonus.”
Roma lost 3-2 to Lazio over the weekend in a very tough Derby della Capitale, which left Mourinho furious at full-time as he gave his side an on-pitch team talk.
And reflecting on the result, Mourinho couldn’t help but take a swipe at the previous fixture, while giving positive updates on his squad.
Chris Smalling helped to make history for Roma“I liked the result, which is what matters in the end,” Mourinho told Sky Sport Italia.
“A few days ago we dominated against a team that was made to seem small and yet we lost. Tonight we won and that is the most important thing.
“We need another five or six points to secure qualification. Many players got to rest, we didn’t have any new injuries, so that is all positive.”
Roma face Empoli as they get back to Serie A action this weekend.
The Giallorossi sit fourth in the table as things stand, and a win would help them put some serious pressure on Inter Milan in third.
“It is always important to get back to winning ways after a defeat,” Mourinho continued.
“Empoli have nine points, they are a difficult team to face and the lads will arrive back to Rome late.
“They’ll make the sacrifice by staying at the training ground overnight and training in the morning, then they can go home for a bit.”
