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Stephan El Shaarawy enjoyed a pivotal cameo off the bench as Roma beat Shakhtar Donetsk 3-0 in their Europa League last-16 first leg match on Thursday night.
El Shaarawy, introduced early in the second half, slalomed between two defenders before lifting a delicate chip over the goalkeeper with just over 15 minutes remaining - the second goal in a win that gives the Giallorossi a great chance of progressing to the quarter-finals of the competition.
Lorenzo Pellegrini and Gianluca Mancini got the other goals on a memorable night for the team.
“We showed our maturity – we showed great character,” El Shaarawy said.
“The coach warned us what it would be like tonight, having coached them [previouly]. They are a tough side, but we did exactly what we had to. The tie is still not over, going over there will be difficult, but this win gives us a huge boost."
The Italy international added: “I’ve been desperate to score, I’ve really been eager to get the first – but I wasn’t obsessing over it. I’ve been working hard, staying patient, staying focused. I’m pleased.
“The Euros are a target for any player. There’s a lot of hunger and enthusiasm on everyone’s part – we have to make sure we keep this up, keeping working hard.”
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