AS Roma rallied from an early deficit to secure a hard-fought 2-1 win over Fiorentina in Florence, a result that further cements their status as serious contenders in Serie A’s early title race. Goals from Matías Soulé and Bryan Cristante overturned Moise Kean’s opener, as Jose Mourinho’s men displayed poise and resilience on hostile ground.

The match opened with high energy and an early yellow card for Cristante within just three minutes, setting the tone for a physical contest. Fiorentina were the aggressors in the opening exchanges and broke through in the 14th minute: Hans Nicolussi Caviglia slipped in a deft pass for Moise Kean, who beat the Roma keeper with a crisp low finish, igniting the home crowd.

But Roma’s response was swift and clinical. In the 22nd minute, Artem Dovbyk threaded a pass to Matías Soulé, who calmly slotted home the equalizer, silencing the Franchi and restoring parity. The momentum shifted Roma’s way, and just eight minutes later they won a corner on the right. Soulé’s precise left-footed delivery found Bryan Cristante at the near post, who soared above his marker to power home a header into the top right corner—an outstanding finish from a difficult angle, giving Roma a 2-1 lead. The goal marked a personal redemption for Cristante, who had been booked early but showed veteran composure thereafter.

The remainder of the half saw both sides trade blows, with Fiorentina’s Gudmundsson and Pioli both earning yellow cards as tempers simmered. Fiorentina coach made attacking changes at the break, introducing Gudmundsson, and later freshened the midfield and defense, while Roma made tactical adjustments, bringing on Baldanzi and Tsimikas to shore up their advantage.

Despite controlling just 46% of possession, Fiorentina pressed for an equalizer in the second half, but Roma’s defense, led by Cristante and a disciplined midfield, stood firm. As the game reached its final act, tension mounted: Roma picked up further bookings in the 65th and 68th minutes, while Fiorentina brought on veteran leaders like Mandragora in search of a spark.

Ultimately, Roma’s organization and set-piece prowess—the second goal a direct result of Soulé’s accuracy and Cristante’s aerial ability—proved the difference. The win lifts Roma to 15 points after six matches, firmly entrenched among the league leaders, while Fiorentina remain searching for a first win to ignite their campaign.

AS Roma’s supporters will savor both the comeback and their team’s grit, with highlights of Cristante’s commanding header already circulating on Fox Deportes and other major recap channels. If this performance is any indication, the Giallorossi are poised to be a force throughout the months ahead.