Roma’s pursuit of their tenth Coppa Italia title took a step forward this evening after their 3-1 victory over Lecce.
Two second-half goals from Tammy Abraham and Eldor Shomurodov lifted the capital club past the Serie B side to advance to the quarterfinals of the competition.
As a result, the Giallorossi will face Inter next month after the Nerazzurri defeated Empoli yesterday evening at the San Siro.
Speaking at full-time, Roma boss José Mourinho was happy with the result but admitted his side has trouble coping without some of its star names on the pitch.
“Unfortunately, it’s true. The team has limits, Of course, Maitland-Niles and Oliveira give us more quality and options, but that’s the situation,” he said to SportMediaset.
Mourinho then discussed facing his former side, Inter, in the next round of the competition.
“There’s still a long way to go before then, including an international break. There’s no doubting they’re the strongest team in the league nevermind the Coppa Italia. But we’ll try and pull off a surprise.”
Finally, the Special One was asked to take stock of his first six months with Roma and his feelings of life in the Italian capital.
“In terms of emotion, empathy, and my overall happiness, on a scale of 1 to 10 I’m at an 11,” claimed Mourinho.
“I’m extremely happy to be at a place where I feel I’m trusted. I couldn’t be happier. In terms of football, finishing between fourth and eighth is obviously something I don’t want, but this is just a moment.”
He added, “Things will be better next season. I won’t hide from the fact I felt frustrated during the first half of the season. It’s difficult when you have so many problems tactically.”
“Having said that, I’m happy and wouldn’t trade this project at Roma for anything else. Before these 3 years I am here for this project.”
