AS Roma have started the season with four straight wins, plus a Champions League demolition of CSKA Moscow. In terms of squad depth, there may well be no one better in Italy. However, if they want to mount a serious challenge for the Serie A title this season, they need to win tricky games like the one they have at home to unbeaten Hellas Verona on Sunday.
AS Roma vs. Hellas Verona: Time, TV schedule and how to watch online
The Serie A round kicks off with Hellas Verona looking to ruin Roma’s perfect start.
Many predicted Verona to suffer a bad bout of second season syndrome this campaign, though so far they’ve been very impressive. However, their game away at Roma on Saturday will be the first time they’ve been seriously tested by one of the best teams in the league this season. Last season they were beaten 3-0 by the giallorossi when they visited the Olimpico.
Key player - Miralem Pjanić (AS Roma)
With just a couple of minutes left on the clock of Roma's midweek match against Parma, the game was deadlocked at 1-1. Cometh the hour, cometh the Pjanić. The Bosnian midfielder curled a fantastic free-kick straight into the back of the net, winning the giallorossi the match. Great players can make the difference with moments of individual brilliance, and Pjanić is certainly a great. Hellas Verona will have to try and mark the playmaker out of the game -- though that's easier said than done.
Key matchup - Gervinho vs. Alessandro Agostini
Another player Hellas Verona will have to try and keep quiet is winger Gervinho, who was outstanding in their massive Champions League win over CSKA Moscow. The Ivorian winger is a strange player, capable of following up a piece of sublime skill with a finish or first-touch not even worthy of a Sunday League game. But when he’s on form, he’s genuinely one of the best in Serie A, and a player capable of terrifying fullbacks in one-on-ones. Good luck, Alessandro Agostini.
AS Roma injuries and suspensions
Out: Ivan Martić, Francesco Benussi (injured). In doubt: Jacopo Sala, Rafael.
Hellas Verona injuries and suspensions
Out: Daniele De Rossi, Federico Balzaretti, Kevin Strootman, Juan Iturbe Davide Astori, Marco Borriello (injured). In doubt: Leandro Castán, Salih Uçan.
Hellas Verona will be without Ivan Martić and Francesco Benussi, while Jacopo Sala and Rafael are doubtful. The upshot is that former Manchester United goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini should keep his place between the sticks after making his debut in the draw against Genoa in midweek.
Roma have a long injury list, with midfielders Daniele De Rossi and Kevin Strootman, defender Davide Astori and attacker Juan Iturbe the most significent absentees. However, Leandro Castán and Salih Uçan could both once again be available for coach Rudi García.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 6 p.m. local, 12 p.m. ET
Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy
TV: RAI Internazionale (U.S. and Canada - Italian), Premium Calcio (Italy)
Online: beIN Sports Connect (U.S. and Canada), Sky Go Italia (Italy)
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