Serie A made its TV debut on ESPN this weekend with AS Roma traveling to Turin to take on Torino FC. The match was broadcast ESPNews with Mark Donaldson and Matteo Bonetti (who used to call Serie A action for beIN SPORTS) commentating.
While swaths of empty seats could be seen in the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino — one of the common broadcast criticisms of Italy’s top division when compared to the fervent atmosphere that accompanies most Premier League matches on NBCSN — there was still a bounce to the stadium on opening weekend in Serie A.
What’s more, viewers were treated to a clash between the likes of Torino’s Andrea Belotti and Iago Falque against last season’s Champions League semifinalists. The quality on show is immense.
In the end, Torino had a goal correctly ruled offside thanks to the intervention of the VAR, and Roma struck the post on three occasions before Edin Dzeko smashed a stunning volley in the 89th minute to secure all three points for Roma.
The assist was provided by 19-year-old Dutch phenom Justin Kluivert, the son of former Barcelona legend Patrick.
Welcome into our homes, Serie A. You seem like a welcome addition to the family.
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