Real Madrid will take a two-goal advantage into the second leg of their round-of-16 Champions League clash with Roma at the Bernabeu next month.
In Zinedine Zidane’s debut as a coach in the Champions League, the Frenchman saw his side secure a hard-fought victory with substitute Jese Rodriguez wrapping up the win with this fine solo effort.
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The visitors were looking to take a step towards ending their poor history against Italian sides in the knockout stages of European competition, and although they didn’t particularly impress, they will be delighted with their efforts in the Italian capital.
After the two sides had cancelled each other out in the first half, it wasn’t long before Cristiano Ronaldo broke the deadlock with a stunning piece of skill and finish.
Although the Portuguese international benefitted from a significant deflection via Alessandro Florenzi which left Wojciech Szczesny well beaten, his turn and strike was impressive as he took his tally to 12 for the competition this season.
Roma undoubtedly have it all to do in the second leg to overturn their deficit, with Madrid likely to be thrilled with keeping a clean sheet and bagging two away goals.
Nevertheless, the Spanish giants will be strong favourites to advance, but Zidane will hope to see an improved display next time out as he looks to take his side deep into the latter stages of the Champions League.