AS Roma claimed a valuable 2-0 victory away to Bologna today at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, with Neil El Aynaoui playing a central role in both goals.
The result gives Roma 3 important points in the closing weeks of the Serie A season and keeps them in the battle for a Champions League place.
Roma wasted little time taking control of the match. After only seven minutes, El Aynaoui slipped a clever pass through the Bologna defence for Donyell Malen, who finished calmly to put the visitors in front.
The early goal gave Roma confidence, and Bologna struggled to settle into the game.
El Aynaoui involved in both goals
Just before halftime, Roma struck again. This time Malen delivered the ball into the area, and El Aynaoui arrived to score from close range and make it 2-0.
It was a deserved reward for an excellent first-half display from the midfielder, who was involved whenever Roma moved forward with purpose.
Bologna tried to respond after the break and had more of the ball, but Roma stayed organised and rarely looked troubled.
With a two-goal advantage, the visitors managed the game well, defended with discipline, and never allowed Bologna to build real momentum.
The win had added meaning after Roma’s Europa League exit against Bologna last month. It was a chance to respond, and they took it.
The three points also arrive at an important oment in the season, with every result now carrying weight in the race for the top four.
Roma fans also had another reason to be pleased, as Paulo Dybala returned to competition after three months out injured.
His comeback gives the squad another major option for the final stretch of the campaign.
El Aynaoui had one of his best nights in a Roma shirt so far. A goal, an assist, and a strong all-round performance showed his growing confidence and importance to the Italian team.
