Roma 2-0 Fiorentina

Ashley Cole made his Roma debut as last season's Serie A runners-up began the new season with a hard-fought win against visitors Fiorentina.

Ex-Chelsea left-back Cole, who joined the Giallorossi on a free transfer, was rarely threatened as Roma led through Radja Nainggolan's half-volley.

The visitors improved after half-time, forcing Roma keeper Morgan De Sanctis into three excellent saves.

Roma sealed victory with the last kick of the game through Gervinho's strike.

The ex-Arsenal player had been wasteful in front of goal before finally putting the game beyond Fiorentina, who finished fourth in Serie A last season.

Victory meant Roma - who finished 17 points behind Juventus last season - maintained pace with the reigning champions on the opening weekend of the Italian top-flight.

Juve, under new boss Massimiliano Allegri, started their bid to win a fourth consecutive Serie A title with a comfortable 1-0 win at Chievo.