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Jose Mourinho Admits Tactical Mistakes Before Inspiring Real Madrid’s Stunning Comeback Against Roma

Jose Mourinho praised his Real Madrid players after a thrilling 4-3 comeback win at Roma, while admitting tactical errors that left his team struggling early in the match. The Portuguese coach faced intense pressure during his return to the Stadio Olimpico but eventually masterminded a late turnaround in the Champions League group stage.

Substitutes Change the Course of the Game

Real Madrid looked set to lose after falling 3-1 behind to Gian Piero Gasperini's resilient Roma side. Yet, within seven minutes, a sudden flurry of goals reversed the situation completely.

  • Endrick and Carlos Espi were introduced near the hour mark along with Arda Guler and Bernardo Silva, shaking up the squad.
  • Both Endrick and Espi scored to erase Roma’s lead.
  • Antonio Rudiger, a former Roma defender, sealed the comeback with a 90th-minute header assisted by Guler’s second setup of the night.

Mourinho Accepts Responsibility for Poor Start

The Madrid boss took full blame for their shaky beginning, praising Roma’s aggressive play. He believed the intensity from Roma would not last the entire match, prompting his substitutions.

"The first half was my fault; the second half was the players’. Football is a 90-minute strategic game. The opponents were incredibly strong. They are a formidable team," Mourinho said."But it’s impossible to keep up their level of intensity for a whole match. I made the changes I thought necessary. In the first half, they really punished us."

A Warm Welcome Back in Rome

The night also marked an emotional reunion between Mourinho and the Roma fans, who applauded him warmly despite his departure in January 2024. Ultra supporters displayed large banners celebrating his 2022 Conference League victory, including one stating: "Whoever brings glory to Rome, Rome will honour forever." Mourinho admitted he was left speechless by the gesture.

Tension Over Vinicius Jr. Substitution

Brief tension arose when Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. expressed frustration after being taken off in the 59th minute following a mistake that led to Roma’s second goal.

"It was tough for Vini. He lost a ball he shouldn’t have. But that’s how it goes. I make mistakes too. It’s natural for him not to be happy. Frustration is normal. But after the match, he was very happy about the win," Mourinho explained.

Real Madrid Keeps Champions League Hopes Alive

This dramatic comeback secures important points for Real Madrid in the Champions League, highlighting the squad’s depth as substitutes proved decisive when the starting lineup faltered.

Mourinho now faces the challenge of managing his star-studded squad, ensuring key players handle frustration well as they prepare for demanding domestic and European fixtures ahead.

Upcoming Matches

  • Roma vs Genoa - Serie A - 17 Oct 2026, 21:45
  • Real Madrid vs Sevilla - LaLiga - 18 Oct 2026, 22:00

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