Cagliari 0-0 AS Roma: Roma held by stubborn Cagliari in goalless draw

Cagliari commenced the new Serie A season with a commendable defensive performance, successfully maintaining their composure in front of their home supporters to secure a well-earned 0-0 draw against AS Roma.

In their first complete season under the management of Daniele De Rossi, Roma appeared somewhat ill-prepared in their attacking efforts, struggling to generate significant opportunities during a subdued opening phase of the campaign. The match began to open up in the 40th minute when Razvan Marin attempted to challenge Mile Svilar with a shot from 25 yards, but the Romanian goalkeeper managed to deflect the effort to safety.

Roma quickly countered, yet Nicola Zalewski's delicate cross was too high for Artem Dovbyk, last season's La Liga 'Pichichi' winner, to capitalize on. Just five minutes later, Mehmet Zeki Celik inadvertently surrendered possession to Roberto Piccoli, who surged towards goal, only to see his attempt veer wide of the post, with Svilar appearing to have the situation under control.

A passionate address from De Rossi at halftime likely inspired the visitors, who emerged with renewed vigor. Matias Soule attempted a shot with the outside of his boot just two minutes into the second half, which Simone Scuffet expertly tipped around the post. Zalewski then sought to break the stalemate with a powerful effort from the edge of the area, but his execution was slightly off.

In the 54th minute, the match should have witnessed its first goal. A straightforward ball over the top found Zalewski on the left flank, whose low cross was cleverly evaded by Dovbyk for the advancing Lorenzo Pellegrini. However, the Giallorossi captain was unable to direct the ball past Scuffet.

De Rossi brought on key player Paulo Dybala in the 69th minute. The Argentine, who has attracted considerable interest from Saudi Arabia, began the match on the bench. He was presented with an opportunity to score almost immediately, but his free kick from 25 yards lacked the necessary elevation, resulting in a weak strike against the wall.

The introduction of Dybala significantly enhanced Roma's offensive capabilities, and in the 79th minute, the visitors came close to scoring when Dovbyk directed a header from the substitute's chipped cross onto the crossbar.

Shortly thereafter, Marin struck the bar for Cagliari with another powerful shot, but Svilar managed to respond effectively, deflecting the attempt onto the crossbar.

As the home side, Cagliari aimed to commence the new season with a victory in front of their supporters; however, considering Roma's historical dominance over the Sardinian team, they could be satisfied with securing a draw in the end.