Leonardo Balerdi scores twice for AS Roma against Napoli

Leonardo Balerdi Scores Twice in AS Roma Draw Against Napoli

Former Olympique de Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi scored twice off the bench to help AS Roma secure a 3-3 draw against Napoli in Serie A action. While pre-match discussions centered on his battle for a regular spot under manager Gian Piero Gasperini, the 27-year-old Argentine delivered an immediate impact after entering the match in the second half.

Substitution Sparks Roma Comeback

Napoli held a 2-0 lead before Gasperini introduced Balerdi in the 58th minute to replace Mario Hermoso. Just three minutes after entering, Balerdi received a yellow card for a foul on Rasmus Højlund. The defender soon made a decisive impact at the other end of the pitch. In the 74th minute, Balerdi reacted quickest after a corner from Evan Ndicka was deflected by Santiago Castro, firing in from close range to make it 2-2. After Napoli reclaimed the lead, Balerdi struck again in the 89th minute, meeting a cross from Wesley with a header to salvage a 3-3 draw, according to reporting by lephoceen.fr.

Italian Media Praise Balerdi Amid Match Controversy

Italian sports outlets praised the substitute’s decisive display. awarded Balerdi an 8/10 rating for his attacking efficiency, while CalcioNews24 and Napoli Magazine both graded his performance 7.5/10. The final goal triggered strong protests from the Napoli coaching staff, who argued Balerdi committed a foul on Sam Beukema before heading in the equalizer. The dispute resulted in the expulsion of Massimiliano Allegri for aggressive dissent.

Balerdi Seeks Consistency Under Gasperini

This multi-goal performance arrives at a crucial juncture for the defender. Prior to the fixture, Il Romanista highlighted the intense competition for defensive positions in Rome involving Hermoso, Ndicka, and Gianluca Mancini. Balerdi’s early-season minutes included a difficult substitute appearance against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on October 14, which drew harsh criticism from Italian media, followed by a steadier 7/10 performance in a 4-0 win against Slovan Bratislava. With two goals in a 32-minute span against Napoli, the defender strengthens his case for increased playing time.

Questions About Leonardo Balerdi's Career and Performance

When did Leonardo Balerdi join AS Roma?

Balerdi moved to AS Roma following the conclusion of his spell at Olympique de Marseille, where he played from 2020 through 2026.

How many minutes did Balerdi play against Napoli?

Balerdi entered the match as a 58th-minute substitute for Mario Hermoso, playing just over half an hour plus stoppage time.

Which Italian media outlet gave Balerdi the highest match rating?

Eurosport Italia gave Balerdi the highest mark of the major outlets with an 8/10 rating.

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