AS Roma brought an end to their five-game winless streak with a narrow 1-0 victory over US Lecce at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A.
Coming into the match on the back of a dip in form and a disappointing European setback, Roma were under pressure to respond.
Their recent struggles had raised concerns about their push for a UEFA Champions League spot, making this clash against relegation-threatened Lecce a crucial opportunity to steady the ship.
Despite controlling possession for much of the first half, the hosts struggled to convert dominance into clear-cut chances. Donyell Malen looked the most dangerous in attack, but his effort from inside the box sailed over, highlighting Roma’s lack of cutting edge.
A potential breakthrough from Nicolò Pissili was ruled out after Lorenzo Pellegrini was judged offside in the build-up.
Lecce, largely quiet in the opening period, showed more intent after the restart. Oumar Ngom forced a nervy save from Mile Svilar, while Tiago Gabriel came close from a corner shortly after.
Seeking a spark, Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini turned to his bench, introducing Robinho Vaz, a move that proved decisive.
The substitute rose at the back post to head home a precise cross from Mario Hermoso, breaking the deadlock.
Even after taking the lead, Roma looked far from comfortable. A crucial goal-line clearance from Hermoso denied Santiago Pierotti an equaliser, preserving the hosts’ advantage. Vaz later had a chance to seal the game but fired over from close range.
In the end, Roma held firm to secure a much-needed victory, extending their unbeaten home run in the league to eight matches and moving within three points of Como.
For Lecce, the defeat sees them slip into the relegation zone on goal difference, with just eight matches left to fight for survival.
