Roma the have best defensive record in Europe as Milan, Arsenal and Real Madrid follow

Roma’s rearguard has become the stingiest in Europe’s major leagues, with Gian Piero Gasperini’s side allowing only 16 goals in 25 Serie A fixtures, the fewest among the continent’s top-five divisions. The Giallorossi’s mean streak has been especially pronounced when Ivorian centre-back Evan Ndicka has taken the field: Roma have shipped 12 goals in 20 league matches with Ndicka in the lineup, a rate of 0.60 per game, compared with four in five matches (0.80 per game) during his recent absence at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Milan and surprise package Como join Roma among Europe’s defensive elite, each conceding 19 goals in 25 league outings, the same number Real Madrid have surrendered in 24 La Liga contests. Arsenal, England’s tightest back line, have let in 20 goals after 27 Premier League rounds.

The capital club currently occupy fourth place in Serie A with 47 points, one clear of Juventus in fifth and three behind third-placed Napoli. Roma will look to extend their defensive mastery on Sunday when Cremonese visit the Stadio Olimpico.