Genoa secured a much-needed 2-0 victory over Venezia on February 17, 2025, at Marassi, boosting its hopes for safety in Serie A. The win was marked by second-half goals from Andrea Pinamonti and Maxwel Cornet, sealing the match and lifting the Grifone to 30 points, positioning them at 11th on the league table. Meanwhile, the defeat leaves Venezia languishing near the relegation zone, now firmly planted second to last.
Genoa's Patrick Vieira fielded his team utilizing 4-3-3 formation, with Nicolo Leali guarding the goal and being supported by defenders De Winter, Bani, Vasquez, and Martín. Midfielders Frendrup, Masini, and Miretti found their roles key as the game unfolded. The attacking front featured Messias, Pinamonti, and Vitinha, aiming to deliver offensive pressure against the Venezia side managed by Eusebio Di Francesco, who opted for 3-5-2.
The match started with both teams testing each other, but it took until the latter part of the second half to see breakthroughs. Genoa dominated the first half on paper but failed to capitalize on their chances. Various scores were closely contested, and the game lacked the excitement expected from such fixtures as both teams struggled to maintain consistent offensive momentum. Only fleeting moments of danger arose, including attempts from Pinamonti and Nicolussi Caviglia, with both goalkeepers proving their mettle to keep the first-half score at 0-0.
It wasn't until the 82nd minute when the game was finally cracked open. Caleb Ekuban, who had just entered the pitch, provided the assist with great vision as he found Pinamonti on the run. The striker displayed his finesse by curling the ball beautifully under the crossbar, sending the home fans at Marassi erupting with joy. Pinamonti's goal was not just significant for this match; it marked his eighth overall this season, solidifying his position as the leading goalscorer for Genoa.
Four minutes later, Cornet, also introduced later on, followed suit by scoring the second for Genoa after another assist from Ekuban. The sequence showcased pure teamwork as Cornet, bursting down the right, shifted onto his left foot to secure the 2-0 advantage for the Grifone. His goal was equally momentous, being his first in the league this season after several tough outings.
Both goals by Pinamonti and Cornet not only sealed the deal on the night but also illustrated the depth and adaptability present within the Genoa squad. After the match, Vieira praised his team's perseverance and emphasized the importance of securing points at home. "The team showed great character and determination right until the final moment," Vieira reflected.
This win proved statistically impactful for Genoa as well. With 30 points secured after their 25th match, Genoa matched their points from the previous season at the same mark. Historically, when reaching this point, the Grifone has successfully avoided relegation, providing fans with optimism moving forward. Conversely, Venezia's plight deepened as they now stood only five points above the relegation zone, leaving them with precious little time to recover their form.
Reflecting on the loss, Di Francesco lamented his team's inability to perform when it mattered most. "We need to learn from these moments. We missed opportunities, and when you do at this level, you face costs." His sentiments point to the mounting pressure on his squad as the relegation battle intensifies.
Moving forward, Genoa will seek to build on this victory, aiming for consistency as they look to climb the table. With the business end of the season approaching, every point becomes increasingly valuable—something both teams are aware of as they face the weeks to come.
This match concludes yet another dramatic installment of Serie A, reinforcing the unpredictable nature of football as teams vie for survival and pride.