Claudio Ranieri admits “we would not have been able to turn this game around at the start of the season,” as Roma have changed mentality.
“I don't know if it will be an historic night. It was important to get points against the vice-Champions of Europe,” he said of the 3-2 victory against Bayern Munich.
They were trailing 2-0 at the break, but Marco Borriello, Daniele De Rossi and a late Francesco Totti penalty completed an extraordinary comeback.
Claudio Ranieri admits “we would not have been able to turn this game around at the start of the season,” as Roma have changed mentality.
“I don't know if it will be an historic night. It was important to get points against the vice-Champions of Europe,” he said of the 3-2 victory against Bayern Munich.
They were trailing 2-0 at the break, but Marco Borriello, Daniele De Rossi and a late Francesco Totti penalty completed an extraordinary comeback.
“It was incredibly difficult after that first half, but the lads fought with hunger, determination and desire, helped by the great crowd.
“We weren't that bad in the first half, it was just that they stretched us out and were very good when in possession, as it forced us to run a lot. That's why I moved Mirko Vucinic and Jeremy Menez to wider roles so we could cause them some problems.
“We changed gear and right after the break the first few chances were crucial, as they got the crowd back on side and they too started to believe in us.”
Ranieri caused controversy by dropping captain Totti, who came off the bench to convert the winning spot-kick.
“Totti was coming from two games in quick succession and I needed to rest him. He knows everything I do is for the good of the team, he came off the bench and was not unhappy, giving the side all his support.”
Totti said this match was like Roma's campaign in a microcosm and Ranieri agrees they are a different side.
“At the start of the season, we would not have been able to turn this game around. We were still thinking about last season, but all those slaps we got woke us up and we realised that we were back in it psychologically. It started from the Brescia game, even if we lost.”
Roma will qualify in second place if they earn at least a draw against Cluj in the final match.
“We want to reach the knockouts and we aren't there yet, so we have to go to Cluj with humility.”