A goal from Daniele De Rossi has given Roma a 1-0 lead in their Serie A clash against Cesena this evening.

The hosts came close to scoring in the opening minute of the game when Gaby Mudingayi smashed an effort from the edge of the box just over the bar.

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Moments later it was Roma who threatened down the other end of the pitch and Adem Ljajic forced Nicola Leali to beat away his low effort.

The visitors began to take control and Alessandro Florenzi drilled a strike just wide, before debutant Salih Ucan fired into the arms of the keeper.

Roma continued to dominate and Gervinho saw a low effort saved by Leali, before dragging a strike narrowly wide of the far post.

Despite their dominance, the visitors almost fell behind midway through the first half when Luigi Giorgi found space inside the box and drilled a strike inches over the bar.

With the first half heading towards a goalless stalemate, Roma broke the deadlock as captain De Rossi arrived in the middle to guide home Ucan's teasing cross.