Alessandro Florenzi felt Roma were “tactically a step above” Barcelona and Coach Eusebio Di Francesco deserves the credit.
The Giallorossi seemed doomed after a 4-1 first leg defeat, but a 3-0 triumph at the Olimpico turned everything around to reach the Champions League semi-finals on away goals.
Alessandro Florenzi felt Roma were “tactically a step above” Barcelona and Coach Eusebio Di Francesco deserves the credit.
The Giallorossi seemed doomed after a 4-1 first leg defeat, but a 3-0 triumph at the Olimpico turned everything around to reach the Champions League semi-finals on away goals.
“To be honest, we never really felt it was at risk tonight, as Barcelona did nothing to cause us problems. We put in the perfect performance,” Florenzi told Mediaset Premium.
“Tactically, we were a step above them. If Barcelona don’t get to play the ball to feet and pass it around comfortably, they really struggle.”
Di Francesco surprised everyone with a new 3-4-1-2 formation and it proved a masterstroke. Will it be used again or was that a one-off to neutralise Barcelona?
“The Coach will decide, but what we saw tonight should increase this man’s credibility. We players never doubted him, but some in the media and the stands…
“At half-time, he told us to stay calm, as we knew that we could achieve this miracle. We brought home an historic result. Roma hadn’t been in a semi-final for 34 years.
“I really like having three defenders, as it gives me more security to go forward and put crosses in, but it’s up to the Coach to decide.
“It was wonderful to see the Olimpico packed. I expect to see this many fans in the Derby against Lazio too.”
Florenzi is Roma born and bred, but contract talks are dragging on, so does he see himself at the club for life?
“I am really not thinking about any of that right now. I have to focus on the pitch and my present, which is Roma.”