Genoa delivered a stunning upset, defeating AS Roma 2-1 at home thanks to a late winner from substitute Vitinha.
Genoa, battling near the bottom of the Serie A table in 15th position, faced a formidable challenge from AS Roma. The visitors arrived in 4th place, aiming to cement their Champions League qualification hopes. This clash at the Luigi Ferraris promised a tough test for the home side.
The first half saw a physical encounter with early cautions. Roma’s Evan Ndicka received a yellow card in the 12th minute. Shortly after, Genoa’s Patrizio Masini was booked in the 16th minute for a challenge. Both teams showed signs of early aggression.
Roma held a significant advantage in possession, controlling 65% of the ball. However, Genoa showed more attacking intent, registering more shots. D. Malen also earned a yellow card for Roma in the 40th minute for a foul, underscoring the half's combative nature.
Despite the attacking efforts from both sides, the scoreboard remained untouched. The teams headed into the interval locked in a goalless draw. Both managers undoubtedly called for more precision and urgency from their players, seeking to break the deadlock.
The second half exploded into action. In the 52nd minute, Genoa broke the deadlock when Junior Messias calmly converted a penalty. The home crowd erupted as their team took a crucial lead against their higher-ranked opponents.
However, Genoa's joy was short-lived. Just three minutes later, in the 55th minute, Roma defender Evan Ndicka found the net. His quick equalizer silenced the home fans and showcased Roma's resilience and determination to stay in the contest.
As the match progressed, both coaches turned to their benches for fresh impetus. Genoa introduced Vitinha in the 75th minute, a substitution that proved inspired. The young forward quickly looked to make his mark on the game, adding pace to Genoa's attack.
With only 10 minutes remaining, Vitinha etched his name onto the scoresheet. Patrizio Masini delivered a crucial assist, allowing Vitinha to guide the ball home in the 80th minute. His well-taken goal restored Genoa’s lead and sent the stadium into raptures once more. Roma’s Bryan Cristante received a yellow card late on for tripping.
Genoa defied the statistics, securing victory with only 35% possession. Their clinical finishing was highlighted by an expected goals (xG) tally of 2.46, far superior to Roma’s 0.32 xG. Genoa registered 11 total shots with 5 on target, while Roma managed just 7 shots with only 1 on target, illustrating Genoa's efficiency.
This vital 2-1 triumph significantly boosts Genoa's Serie A survival bid and improves their league standing. For AS Roma, the unexpected defeat is a setback in their quest for a top-four finish, highlighting areas for improvement. The match will be remembered for Genoa's impressive fighting spirit and Vitinha's late heroics.
