Jose Mourinho Accepts Responsibility for Real Madrid’s Early Struggles Before Substitutions Spark Late Champions League Comeback at Roma

Mourinho Credits Squad for Dramatic 4-3 Win Over Roma

Jose Mourinho acknowledged tactical mistakes in the first half as Real Madrid staged an electrifying comeback to beat Roma 4-3 in a gripping Champions League clash at the Stadio Olimpico. The Portuguese coach admitted being outplayed tactically during much of the match before his substitutions transformed the game.

Substitutes Change the Course of the Match

Falling behind 3-1, it seemed the visitors were heading for defeat against Gian Piero Gasperini’s determined Roma. Yet within seven minutes, Madrid overturned the deficit thanks to a burst of goals sparked by fresh players from the bench.

• Endrick and Carlos Espi both scored after coming on, erasing Roma's lead.
• Antonio Rudiger, a former Roma defender, sealed the win with a 90th-minute header assisted by Arda Guler, who also provided a second assist earlier.

Mourinho Owns Up to First-Half Mistakes

The coach took full responsibility for Madrid’s poor start and lauded Roma’s relentless energy. He believed their intensity would not last the entire match.

"The first half was the coach’s fault; the second half was the players’ fault," Mourinho said. "Football is a 90-minute, strategic game. Today’s opponent was incredibly strong. They played at a level impossible to maintain for the full 90 minutes. I made the substitutions I thought necessary. But in the first half, they punished us."

A Warm Reception for Mourinho in Rome

Aside from the result, the night was emotional as the Stadio Olimpico crowd warmly welcomed Mourinho back. The fans honored him with banners celebrating his 2022 Conference League success, including one that read: "Whoever brings glory to Rome, Rome will honor forever." Mourinho admitted the tribute left him speechless.

Vinicius Jr.’s Frustration After Substitution

The match also saw some tension when Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. expressed anger after being taken off in the 59th minute following a mistake that led to Roma’s second goal.

"It was tough for Vini," Mourinho explained. "He lost a ball he shouldn’t have. I make mistakes too. It’s normal for him to be unhappy. Frustration happens. But after the match, he was very happy about the win."

Madrid’s European Campaign Remains Strong

This thrilling victory keeps Real Madrid on course in the Champions League, underlining their depth as the bench stepped up when the starting lineup faltered. Mourinho will now focus on managing his star players and making sure frustrations are channeled constructively amid demanding fixtures ahead in domestic and European competitions.

Upcoming Matches

• Roma vs Genoa – Serie A, 17 Oct 2026, 21:45
• Real Madrid vs Sevilla – LaLiga, 18 Oct 2026, 22:00