Mourinho on signing with Oliveira after Roma’s victory over Empoli

scored four goals in the first half of the clash against

, with

Tammy Abraham

finding the back of the net twice and

Sergio Oliveira

and

Nicolo Zaniolo

also netting once each.

In the second half, the opponents tried to compensate with two goals scored by Andrea Pinamonti and Nedim Bajrami, and the game came down to a 4-2.

When talking with

DAZN

after the Giallorossi’s victory, Jose Mourinho spoke about the game and the first and second half differences.

“This is a great result. The 4-2 is a great result for us. Before this match we knew about Lazio-Atalanta and Fiorentina’s draw.

“For us the first half was fundamental. For TV, the second half is better for the audience. Compliments to Empoli for coming back alive and giving their opponents a real run for their money. Congratulations to them.”

The Portuguese tactician also reflected on his tactical decisions in the game.

“We prepared the game well, and Mkhitaryan did well. In the second half, we lowered intensity, and they did well trying to get in, and only when we changed to 3 in line with Veretout did we control the game better.

“At the beginning of the second half until 4-2, we were in trouble. But I don’t want to talk about our problems but about the quality of the opponent. Being here and playing this game, we did well and interesting for you.”

The manager also commented on how Oliveira fits in the team.

“He is different from the others but he is not the regista that people talk about. He is not that and I knew that as Portuguese football is my own. I knew he gave a difference in physique and decisions.

“He’s not a technical phenomenon but it’s difficult for him to make wrong decisions. He knows how to manage the timing as he showed at the end by taking a foul. He has played at a club that wants to win and has learned some behaviours and mentality that we need.”

In the end, Mourinho explained the reason behind his apology for coming out of the halftime break late.

“I don’t remember if against Cagliari or Lecce the opponent came in late. I don’t like that but it was my fault. I wasted time analysing with the iPad and then I took time with my players. I apologised.”

Roma’s victory has put them 6th in the

table, two points above

, who have one game in hand.

Follow

for the