Roma launched the Gian Piero Gasperini era with a narrow 1-0 win over Bologna at the Stadio Olimpico. Brazilian newcomer Wesley Franca scored the only goal on his Serie A debut to give Gasperini a victorious start as Roma manager.
The Giallorossi showed signs of Gasperini`s influence, fielding a new-look lineup with Evan Ferguson and Wesley Franca starting up front. Bologna were dealt early blows as Ciro Immobile and Nicolò Casale both exited with injuries in the first half.
Roma hit the woodwork in the 23rd minute when Bryan Cristante`s glancing header from a Matias Soulé free kick struck the post. The hosts broke the deadlock shortly after halftime, as Wesley pounced on a Jhon Lucumí error to slot home in the 53rd minute.
Bologna came close to equalizing when substitute Santiago Castro`s cross-shot struck the crossbar. Late chances fell to Roma substitutes Federico Bernardeschi and Artem Dovbyk, but the score remained 1-0.
The result gives Gasperini and Roma a winning start to build on, while injuries compounded a frustrating evening for Bologna. Both sides will look to improve as they continue to adapt early in the new Serie A campaign.