Roma 1, Feynoord 0:  Mourinho makes history

-Jose Mourinho guided Roma to their first-ever major European trophy and became the first manager to win in Europe with four different clubs as the Serie A outfit beat Feyenoord 1-0 in the Europa Conference League final in Tirana Albania

Nicolo Zaniolo scored the only goal of an entertaining game in Tirana to seal victory, with Englishmen Chris Smalling, Tammy Abraham and Ainsley Maitland-Niles all tasting success in the Albanian capital.

Smalling in particular was outstanding for a Roma side that rode their luck a little in the second period. However, their defensive solidity stood out in a narrow win against a gallant Feyenoord side.

Roma took the lead in a first-half of very few chances through a classy finish from Zaniolo in the 32nd minute.

The Italy international, who was just onside, chested down Gianluca Mancini’s lofted ball over the top and then clipped his effort over Feyenoord stopper Justin Bijlow.

The second period started in explosive fashion, as the Dutch side came flying out of the blocks.

Mancini deflected a Feyenoord corner onto his own post before Guus Til’s fierce strike from the rebound was well saved by Rui Patricio.

The Portugal international then made a stunning flying stop to tip Tyrell Malacia’s 20-yard thunderbolt onto the bar.

Feyenoord were rampant but Roma then had a big claim for a clear tug back on Tammy Abraham when clean through on goal. However, referee Istvan Kovacs was having none of it and VAR strangely decided not to intervene.

Roger Ibanez had to produce a brilliant last-ditch tackle to deny Cyriel Dessers a strike at goal. Meanwhile, at the other Jordan Veretout’s low strike was pushed away by Bijlow as the game became more stretched.

Feyenoord missed a great chance to draw level in stoppage-time when Bryan Linssen missed his kick with the goal at his mercy from close range.

Wild scenes followed at full-time as the Roma players collapsed to the floor and then danced for joy on an historic night for the club.

Super Eagles striker, Cyril Dessers made history with Feynood as the first team and also first Nigerian striker that was featured in the first UeFA European finals as a runner up rather than winner.