Calafiori elated after achieving dream debut

Calafiori, 18, was making his debut for the Giallorossi - as the club achieved one of its key aims and gave a first opportunity to a product of its academy system.

Calafiori went on to win the penalty that helped turn the game for coach Paulo Fonseca's side, subsequently posting on social media that he could not have asked for any more from his debut.

"It's the culmination of so many years of hard work," Calafiori told asroma.com. "I always dreamed about it - it seemed almost impossible at times, but in the end I did it."

You almost scored a brilliant goal too...

"I couldn't believe I managed to put it on target - because I hit it with my right foot and I think it would have been about my second goal with that foot this season, usually I'd never have a go on that foot. It was an incredible feeling for a second or so, but then I saw the referee and realised straight away it wasn't going to be allowed."

What about the penalty you won?

"When the ball came towards me I immediately thought about returning it to [Diego] Perotti. I stopped it, then I thought about shooting, but then I cut back inside instead - and it was the right move because he fouled me straight away."

Was there a particular teammate who helped you throughout the game?

"Perotti gave me a lot of advice throughout the game - he told me to keep calm, I think he realised I was a bit nervous, especially in the early stages. After half-time I started off a bit better but then I needed to come off because I was starting to get tired. Diego was really helpful though, like all my teammates."