Paulo Dybala scored twice as Roma fought back to beat Porto in a thrilling encounter and seal their place in the last 16 of the Europa League.
The first leg between two of the competition’s favourites in the knockout round play-off had ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Thursday’s second leg in the balance.
Samu opened the scoring for Porto in the 27th minute with a brilliant overhead kick, but Roma levelled eight minutes later thanks to Dybala’s fine finish into the bottom corner.
The Argentine striker was on the scoresheet again just four minutes later as his drilled strike put the Italians ahead.
Stephen Eustaquio was sent off six minutes into the second half for Porto following a review by the video assistant referee (VAR) after hitting out at Leandro Paredes, although the decision seemed harsh.
Roma took advantage as substitute Niccolo Pisilli claimed the decisive goal with seven minutes remaining with a guided finish, meaning Devyne Rensch’s own goal in stoppage time did not matter in the end.
Roma will face either fellow Italians Lazio or Spain’s Athletic Bilbao in the last 16, with the draw taking place on Friday at 12:00 GMT.
Source: bbc
