The Conference League’s final group stage proved to be both positive and dramatic for Roma, who defeated CSKA Sofia 3-2 and also leapfrogged Bodø/Glimt to finish atop Group C.
Despite conceding two goals late in the second half, the Giallorossi capped off their last group fixture with a victory over the Bulgarians before receiving a bit of help from Zorya Luhansk.
The Ukrainian side earned a 1-1 draw against Bodø/Glimt, which allowed Roma to leapfrog the latter and win Group C with 13 points.
It’s a step in the right direction for the capital club following their struggles in Serie A, though, manager José Mourinho wasn’t entirely satisfied with what he saw this evening.
“We can’t have these sorts of issues. We were in control 3-0 then we lose the ball due to naivety, those two goals are unacceptable,” he told Sky Sport.
“I’m happy we won, but there’s no way we can give up those goals.”
“Though, it’s important we won the group so that we don’t have to play an additional two matches. We don’t have a squad capable of handling three competitions, so not playing these extra games is important.”
He also gave his assessment on attacking duo Borja Mayoral, who has played sparingly this season, and Tammy Abraham. The pair scored all three of the team’s goals with the latter collecting a brace.
“Borja was one of the few things that I liked tonight. He scored a beautiful goal, but more than the goal, I liked how he played overall.”
He added, “I wasn’t surprised by his positive attitude, he always works hard. I really like the quality of his game that he showed tonight.”
