What happened in the Roma match?

Cagliari lost 4-2 to AS Roma on October 28 (Korea time) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, in round 9 of the 2026-2027 Serie A season. Yuki Sugawara, Japan's national team defender and the only Japanese player in Italy's top flight, started at right wing-back in a 3-4-3 formation. It was his first start since joining Cagliari on loan last summer, and he was substituted in the 90th minute.

Why did he get such harsh reviews?

According to Tutto Mercato Web, Sugawara was beaten repeatedly by Roma's Argentine left wing-back Nahuel Molina in one-on-one duels. Molina's sharp cross helped set up Emanuele Ruli's equalizer in the 15th minute. Sugawara also failed to track Niccolò Pisilli, who ran into the penalty area before Roma's go-ahead goal. The outlet gave him a 4.5, the lowest rating of any player in the match, and called his performance a disastrous display.

What did the coach say?

Coach Fabio Pisacane said he felt confident in Sugawara's performance and noted that the league takes time to understand. However, Sugawara was left on the bench for the next match against Lazio.

For international fans

Sugawara was part of Japan's squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America this summer, which is why concern about his form is widespread in Japan. Soccer Digest Web reported on November 1 that he is struggling to adapt to Serie A, which is known for its tactical demands on defenders.