Pellegrini’s Redemption Seals Derby Win for Roma
AS Roma Triumphs in a Fierce Derby della Capitale
The Stadio Olimpico was the stage for one of the most gripping editions of the Derby della Capitale on September 21, 2025, as AS Roma edged past city rivals Lazio with a narrow 1-0 victory. The match was defined not only by its intensity but also by the remarkable story of Lorenzo Pellegrini, a player whose personal and professional challenges set the tone for a memorable evening in Rome.
Lorenzo Pellegrini: From Outcast to Hero
Lorenzo Pellegrini, a true Roman and lifelong Roma supporter, found himself at the heart of the narrative. Once the club’s captain, Pellegrini entered the derby under a cloud of uncertainty. He had been stripped of the captain’s armband before the season began, his contract was due to expire at the end of the campaign, and he had not featured in any of Roma’s opening three Serie A matches. Many speculated about his future at the club, with some even questioning whether he would wear the Roma shirt again.
Yet, football often provides a stage for redemption. In the 68th minute, Pellegrini latched onto a loose ball inside the box and coolly slotted it past the Lazio goalkeeper. The Olimpico erupted, and Roma’s ultras unfurled a banner reading “Welcome back, captain,” a poignant message that underscored the emotional weight of the moment. The goal was Pellegrini’s first since January and his fourth in the storied derby, reaffirming his enduring importance to the club and its supporters.
Gasperini’s Early Impact on Roma
The victory continued Roma’s impressive start to the 2025-26 Serie A season under their new manager, Gian Piero Gasperini. Since arriving in the summer, Gasperini has instilled a sense of resilience and tactical discipline in the squad. Roma have now won three of their first four league matches, positioning themselves as early contenders for a Champions League spot.
Gasperini’s decision-making has been bold, including the initial exclusion of established players like Pellegrini. However, the coach’s willingness to reintegrate the midfielder for such a crucial fixture paid dividends. Pellegrini’s performance was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to Gasperini’s man-management and adaptability.
Tempers Flare as Lazio End with Nine Men
The derby lived up to its reputation for drama and confrontation. Lazio, desperate to salvage a result, found themselves reduced to ten men in the 77th minute when Reda Belahyane was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge. The situation escalated after the final whistle, as Mattéo Guendouzi received a red card for dissent, leaving Lazio with just nine players on the pitch at the conclusion of the match.
These dismissals highlighted the frustration within the Lazio camp, who had struggled to break down a determined Roma defense. The loss leaves Lazio searching for answers after a mixed start to their campaign, while the red cards will further complicate their preparations for the next league fixture.
A Derby Steeped in History and Emotion
The Derby della Capitale is always more than just a football match. It is a contest loaded with history, pride, and local identity. This edition was no exception, with both sets of supporters creating a cauldron-like atmosphere inside the Olimpico. The return of Pellegrini to the scoresheet, after months of speculation and disappointment, added a layer of personal redemption to the collective joy of the Roma faithful.
For Pellegrini, the goal was a reminder of his ability to rise above adversity. His journey from sidelined captain to match-winner in the city’s biggest fixture will be remembered as one of the defining moments of his career. The reception from the fans, and the symbolic banner, suggested that his bond with the club remains unbroken, regardless of off-field uncertainties.
Looking Ahead: Roma’s Ambitions and Pellegrini’s Future
With this victory, Roma have sent a clear message to their Serie A rivals. Under Gasperini, they appear more cohesive and determined, with a blend of youth and experience that could propel them toward their season objectives. The reintegration of Pellegrini, and his decisive contribution, may signal a new chapter for both player and club.
Questions remain about Pellegrini’s long-term future, given his expiring contract and the lack of a renewal offer so far. However, performances like this could prompt Roma’s hierarchy to reconsider their stance. For now, Pellegrini’s focus will be on helping his team maintain their momentum as the season unfolds.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember in Rome
The 1-0 victory over Lazio will live long in the memory of Roma supporters, not only for the three points but for the story of redemption it provided. Lorenzo Pellegrini’s journey from uncertainty to heroics encapsulates the unpredictable and emotional nature of football in the Italian capital.
As the dust settles on another fiery Derby della Capitale, both clubs will look to regroup and refocus. For Roma, the path forward appears promising, with Gasperini’s leadership and Pellegrini’s resurgence offering hope for the challenges ahead.
Sources:
Football Italia