Roma arrive in Istanbul in excellent spirits after maintaining their perfect Serie A start with a dramatic 2-1 comeback against Atalanta. That result will have strengthened belief in Gian Piero Gasperini’s project, with the experienced coach bringing an impressive UCL record to the capital. Gasperini has lost only four of his last 23 group or league-phase matches in the competition, recording 10 wins and nine draws [10W, 9D, 4L]. He also suffered just one league-phase defeat in the 2024/25 edition while in charge of Atalanta, highlighting his ability to navigate the demands of European football. However, the Giallorossi have endured difficulties in recent UCL openers, winning only one of their last six matchday-one fixtures [1W, 2D, 3L]. Their solitary success came against CSKA Moscow in 2014/15. Midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini is the only fitness concern ahead of this game. A 3—4—2—1 pattern with Donyell Malen spearheading their attacking line may be deployed against the hosts.