Edoardo Bove was proud to prove the Roma matchwinner last night against Bayer Leverkusen.

The midfielder struck for the 1-0 first-leg Europa League semifinal win.

Bove said: "I felt a 'sea' of emotions inside me and I'm happy with the goal but above all with the result. It was crucial to win this first half and we'll go to Germany next Thursday with the same desire.

"At the beginning they put us in trouble with the counterattacks but we predicted it. They have fast players. But then we played a great game. I dedicate the goal to my family and to those who are always there. They help you to give your best on the pitch."

Roma teammate Nemanja Matic also said: "We have to be happy with this result. We have to play the second leg in their stadium: as we saw they have quality and talent, so it's not finished. It's a positive result, but we have to stay focused.

"Bove? He is doing a great job day by day, he works very hard, he deserved to score goals. For young players it's important to play games and perform well. He is improving. He will be an important player for our club in the future."