Serie A: Genoa Secure 2-0 Victory Over Monza with Defenders’ Goals
Genoa strengthened their mid-table position with a 2-0 win over Monza at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. Goals from defenders Koni De Winter and Johan Vasquez sealed the victory for the home side, despite Andrea Pinamonti missing a penalty in the first half.
The match was in doubt due to heavy rain in Liguria, but the pitch held up despite muddy conditions. Genoa were missing several players through injury and illness, while Monza had their own absentees to contend with.
The first half saw chances for both sides, with Georgios Kyriakopoulos coming close for Monza and Andrea Pinamonti having a header saved. Genoa were awarded a penalty after Kyriakopoulos fouled Vasquez, but Pinamonti’s spot-kick was saved by Stefano Turati.
Genoa took control in the second half, with Fabio Miretti hitting the crossbar early on. The breakthrough came in the 61st minute when Aaron Martin’s free-kick found De Winter unmarked at the back post to head home. Vasquez doubled the lead in the 84th minute, nodding in Maxwel Cornet’s cross from close range.
The result leaves Monza rooted to the bottom of the Serie A table, while Genoa climb to 11th place. The home side’s defenders turned goal-scorers on a night where their attacking players struggled to find the net.
Match Statistics
- Possession: Genoa 50% – 50% Monza
- Shots: Genoa 18 – 5 Monza
- Shots on Target: Genoa 6 – 1 Monza
- Corners: Genoa 9 – 6 Monza
- Fouls: Genoa 13 – 19 Monza
Genoa’s victory showcased their defensive strength and ability to capitalize on set-pieces. Manager Alberto Gilardino will be pleased with his team’s performance and the clean sheet, as they continue to establish themselves in the middle of the Serie A table.