AS Roma’s seven-game unbeaten streak poses fresh challenge for Real Madrid

Piero Gasperini's side have developed into one of Europe's most organised teams and are unbeaten in their opening seven matches of the season. The Italian side have scored 14 goals and conceded just three this season, giving them the best goal difference in Serie A. Their defensive success has been built around Gasperini's preferred three-man back line, supported by aggressive pressing and coordinated movement across the pitch. Rather than abandoning the tactical principles that made him famous at Atalanta, the manager has assembled a squad suited to his methods.