Vincenzo Iaquinta scored twice with Olof Mellberg and Pavel Nedved also on target for Claudio Ranieri's side, who showed no mercy for a depleted Roma outfit.

Roma's consolation came from Simone Loria, who briefly restored parity after the first of Iaquinta's goals.

League leaders Inter host Reggina tomorrow and can restore their seven-point lead at the summit, while Roma could slip five points behind fourth place if either Genoa or Fiorentina win tomorrow.

In tonight's other match, Lazio striker Goran Pandev missed a penalty as his team fell to a 1-0 defeat at Catania.

Michele Paolucci put the hosts ahead in the 24th minute before Pandev saw his spot-kick saved by Catania goalkeeper Albano Bizzarri just after the hour mark.