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Roma return to the Champions League spotlight on Wednesday 14 October at 9pm, hosting Real Madrid at the Stadio Olimpico on the second matchday of the league phase. Gian Piero Gasperini's side drew 1-1 away to Fenerbahçe and are still chasing their first European win of the season.
But Real Madrid arrive on the back of a 2-1 win over Inter and are aiming to follow it up away from home in the capital. Roma will look to turn the Olimpico's support into three valuable points.
After their draw with Como cost them top spot in the league, Roma have an immediate chance to make amends. Gasperini will have Malen available, and the forward will be determined to make the difference after receiving his first straight red card in Serie A. In defence, the former Atalanta manager could start Balerdi, while Soulè will replace Pellegrini in attacking midfield. For Los Blancos, Vinicius looks set to start on the bench after his league sending-off and the Brazilian's considerable agitation. Diomandè, who got off the mark last weekend, is set to play.
