Dybala: ‘Roma reaction of a great team and real men’ | OneFootball

Paulo Dybala hails the Roma ‘reaction of a great team and real men’ after eliminating FC Porto in the Europa League play-off. ‘Claudio Ranieri does what is best for the team.’

The Giallorossi had it all to do after the 1-1 first leg result and Samu’s acrobatic attempt had put Porto ahead at the Stadio Olimpico, but Dybala turned it around with two goals in four minutes.

Following the Stephen Eustaquio red card for a reaction foul on Leandro Paredes, Niccolò Pisilli made the result safe, even from a last-gasp Devyne Rensch own goal.

“After their goal, we had the reaction of a great team and real men. There was some tension, which saw us have more grit and determination in every challenge, then with the goals we gained confidence and rode the wave of enthusiasm from the crowd,” Dybala told Sky Sport Italia.

The Argentina international went off to a standing ovation in the final minutes, consolidating his bond with the Roma fans that saw him turn down a huge salary from the Saudi Pro League in the summer and Turkey in January.

“I always say, the affection that the fans have for me not just in the stadium, but also walking around in the street, is unique and wonderful. The season is not going the way we expected, a lot has happened, but this is a squad that played Finals and some of my teammates won silverware, so Europe has to be a target.”

Dybala hails Ranieri influence on Roma

ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 20: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma scores his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between AS Roma and FC Porto at Stadio Olimpico on February 20, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Ranieri is the third coach of the campaign for Roma after the chaos of Daniele De Rossi and Ivan Juric, so how did the veteran transform the atmosphere?

“The moment he arrived, he has so much knowledge and experience, he knows this club better than anyone. He was practically born in the Trigoria training centre,” continued Dybala.

“He can also get the best out of every individual player, focusing as much on the biggest star as the smallest. He does what is best for the team, without looking at anyone’s name. That is great for all of us, because we know that we all have the same chance of playing if we give our best in training.

“Now we must keep going like this, be aware of what we are capable of and what we can still achieve this season.”

Dybala did not just score the goals, but was also booked soon after the opening FC Porto goal and it was seen as a sign to his teammates to get fighting.

“It was not a good thing, but it came naturally in a moment of tension, as things weren’t going our way. It was just a row for a few seconds, but it prompted us to get something out of ourselves and give that little bit extra to turn the game around.”

Now Roma will face either Lazio or Athletic Club in the Round of 16, with the draw held tomorrow, so who would Dybala prefer?

“It doesn’t matter, either one. I know what you want me to say…”