Luiz Felipe Scolari screwed up his decision-making but decided to blames his players for the disastrous 3-1 defeat by Roam in the Eternal City tonight.
Now Chelsea have to beat Bordeaux in three weeks time to get out of the group - but that is not a certainty as the French side beat Cluj 2-1.
Chelsea were just a goal down at half-time but had the lion's share of possession.
But Scolari decided to take off Joe Cole and Malouda who were both effective wide men.
Drogba came on and Anelka moved to the wing.
Belletti did nothing and the Blues conceded two more goals before John terry tapped in a consolation goal 15 minutes from time.
Scolari said afterwards: "We gave too many chances to Roma.
"There were too many mistakes handed to them.
"After the [first] goal we were anxious and gave them more opportunities."