Rome, Mourinho’s move that surprised Bodo

ROMA – “I’m sure, Roma will go to the semifinals”. Like this José Mourinho at the end of the first leg. Not after a very successful match that gave certainty of qualification, but after a 2-1 defeat and the second knockout against Bodo. But this is the Special One, the technician among the most titled in the world able to immediately turn the page at the triple whistle starting immediately the preparation for the second leg. Such as? With these statements they ignited the hope of the fans and gave an important signal to the team: woe to not believe it and not give everything in the game. But at the same time, woe to still underestimate the opponent.

Mourinho’s moves in the preparation for the match they delivered the victory even before starting it. Communication strategy, tactics, the surprise move and maximum concentration. The Special One won on every aspect, he studied the most important game of the season and made it his own in five minutes.

Communication strategy. Lower the tones on the clash between the coach Knutsen and the trainer Nuno Santos, without talking about it in Trigoria with the players but keeping the concentration only on the field. As mentioned, the post-Bodo-Roma communication, with the certainty of passing the turn transmitted to the group, but also making himself heard with the team to avoid voltage drops and no longer underestimate the opponent. Even at the press conference Mourinho was clear: respect for the Bodo but not fear. He was sure to pass because he knows the strength of this group, especially in important games like yesterday’s.

The brilliant move was to include Zaniolo. A real surprise. After the two benches the Giallorossi talent is got back holder and broke the game with his hat-trick. Mourinho’s strategy in great secrecy, kept his choice of formation hidden until the last minutes after the kick-off of the match and took the game home after just five minutes. Abraham’s goal after the rejected shot by Zaniolo, then the three goals of the Giallorossi talent who, charged with bitterness for the benches in the derby and against Salernitana, turned the game and probably also his season.

Mourinho deployed an always aggressive team on the opponents ball carriers but not only, he closed the passing lines, he raised the center of gravity from the first minute making Bodo understand his intentions immediately. Pressing high, Mkhitaryan “all-player”, Cristante once again the keys to the midfield. Then many verticalizations between filtering and long balls that allowed Roma to be devastating. The Mourinho effect on the fans is clearly another aspect of the victory in bringing the Special One to the capital. Over 60 thousand spectators against Salernitana, four days later against Bodo. A magnificent audience, a thrilling atmosphere. In the face of those who called him boiled, Mourinho is always Special.