Donyell Malen scored twice as AS Roma secured an impressive victory over Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico in their opening Serie A fixture.
The Dutch forward proved decisive on matchday one, spearheading the attack with sharp finishing and testing the visitors' backline throughout a dominant display.
Roma seized control of the contest from the outset, controlling the tempo and limiting Fiorentina to sporadic counter-attacking opportunities.
The breakthrough arrived in the 27th minute when Paulo Dybala unlocked the defence, setting up Malen to sweep a left-footed finish into the net from the centre of the box.
Fiorentina attempted to respond before the interval, but defenders Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso remained resolute to clear any looming danger.
Frustration mounted for the visitors as midfielder Nicolo Fagioli received a yellow card following a mistimed challenge midway through the half.
Malen doubled Roma's advantage seven minutes into the second half, reacting quickest in the penalty area to put the hosts firmly in command.
The home side managed the remaining stages with composure, retaining large spells of possession to ensure a clean sheet and all three points.
