Roma ready for formidable opening test against Atletico

Coach Eusebio Di Francesco knows his Roma side must match Atletico Madrid’s intensity if they are to come away with a positive result from Tuesday’s Champions League opener at the Stadio Olimpico.

The Giallorossi open this year’s group stage with a daunting clash against two-time finalists Atletico, whose football identity is well established under coach Diego Simeone.

And Di Francesco knows his squad must be prepared for an early example of what the competition is all about.

“Simeone’s squad have a clear identity,” Di Francesco said. “Perhaps less flair, but very tactically sound and they always know what their role is. They have reached two Champions League finals and you do not do that by accident. They have strong mental and physical qualities.

“For us to compete with them we have to also go out on the pitch with those same characteristics – together with our own playing ideas.”

Midfielder Kevin Strootman concurred with his coach’s view.

“Everyone always says that we have a strong midfield, but we have to prove this in every game,” he noted. "We need to show we are a strong side in every game.

“In the Champions League the opponents are always tough and the teams always play good football. Tomorrow we have to find a higher level.”

The Giallorossi enter the match after almost a three-week break, with Saturday’s scheduled Serie A fixture against Sampdoria being cancelled due to poor weather.

“Perhaps it can be seen as an advantage for our preparations for the game against Atletico, but we don’t know when this game will now be played in the championship,” Di Francesco added. “Any advantage is relative, also because a lot of Atletico’s players did not play in the last game against Valencia – so a lot of their starters are also rested.”