AS Roma secured third place in Serie A after a 2-0 victory against Hellas Verona, marking six wins from their last seven league games and sealing UEFA Champions League qualification.
Roma edged a tight first half against Verona, controlling possession but struggling to create clear-cut chances. Verona stayed compact and dangerous on the break, frustrating the visitors with aggressive pressing and disciplined defending.
Paulo Dybala looked to be Roma’s main man going forward, but the hosts matched their intensity in a tense opening 45 minutes at the Bentegodi.
The Giallorossi knew that as long as they avoided defeat, they would seal a top-four spot, and despite Como winning at half-time in their game, Gian Piero Gasperini’s men had their destiny in their hands.
Momentum swung in the visitors’ favour when the home side were reduced to 10 men five minutes into the second half, with Nicolas Valentino being sent off for a second bookable offence.
And just minutes later, Kieron Bowie was penalised for handling in the box, gifting Roma a penalty, which Donyell Malen - who has lit up the Italian top-flight since joining in January - initially missed but finished after Dybala fired the ball back into the box.
Following the opener, Roma were in total control as Verona struggled to gain a foothold in the contest.
And ultimately, Stephen El Shaarawy added another to confirm the result, firing Roma to Europe’s elite competition next season.
As for Verona, they were already relegated before today’s fixtures and will aim for an immediate return to the Italian top flight next season, having finished 19th, 17 points from safety.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Paulo Dybala (Roma)
Click here for player ratings and more.