The Stadio Olimpico did not witness a shot on target until the 57th minute but it was worth waiting for as Marcelo released Cristiano Ronaldo for a trademark strike, cutting in from the left. Roma rallied yet could not find an equaliser and substitute Jesé rounded off Zinédine Zidane's coaching debut in the competition in style.
Zinédine Zidane hailed his team's patience and cohesion as they made the most of their chances in a 2-0 win at Roma that leaves them well placed for a quarter-final spot.
Real Madrid's Marcelo was grateful to the "fantastic" Cristiano Ronaldo for breaking down an intransigent Roma defence, paving the way for a "massive result" in the round of 16 first leg.