Genoa secured a pivotal 2-1 victory over Empoli, closing out 2024 on a high note. The match, held at the Carlo Castellani stadium, showcased Johan Vásquez as an integral player for the team, contributing significantly to their first win of the season since the early weeks. The Mexican defender played the full 90 minutes, demonstrating both defensive prowess and occasional moments of tension.
The opening half of the match was characterized by both teams pushing for dominance, but neither could break the deadlock. It wasn’t until the second half when Milan Badelj opened the scoring just after the halftime break, putting Genoa 1-0 up shortly after the whistle. Badelj capitalized on a defensive error from Empoli, nudging the ball home after several ricochets within the box.
Vásquez played a fundamental role, helping to solidify the defense, especially during aerial duels. His ability to read the game and intercept passes was pivotal for Genoa’s strategy. With the team buoyed by the opening goal, there was optimism for increasing their lead.
Yet, as fate would have it, Johan Vásquez found himself at the center of controversy 51 minutes in. While trying to stop Sebastiano Esposito, he mistimed his tackle, bringing down the Empoli forward inside the area. Although replays indicated minimal contact, the referee awarded Empoli the penalty, putting the pressure squarely on the Genoa side. Esposito stepped up for the shot, but like many heroes do, Nicola Leali rose to the occasion, making a stunning save to preserve Genoa’s lead.
The atmosphere shifted momentarily as Empoli found themselves with newfound energy after the penalty, desperately seeking to equalize. Yet, the dismissal of the penalty rattled their momentum instead, allowing Genoa to push forward.
Caleb Ekuban would extend the visitors' lead to 2-0 at the 68-minute mark, capitalizing on another defensive error by Empoli to slot the ball home from close range. The scoreline seemed comfortable, but the game was far from over.
With time running out, the tension ramped up. Both teams exchanged chances, but the resolute defense commanded by Vásquez and supported by Leali saw them through the final minutes. Seemingly unperturbed by the earlier penalty debacle, Vásquez remained focused, cutting off attacks and clearing the ball effectively.
Following the final whistle, the sense of relief was palpable among the Genoa players. The victory was not only important for the current standings—now keeping Genoa comfortably mid-table with 19 points—but also served as morale boosting heading back to training after the holiday break.
This has been particularly noteworthy for Johan Vásquez, who, after 18 matches this season, has established himself as one of the mainstays on defense. The 23-year-old has accrued significant playing time and emerged as someone capable of stepping up when needed.
Now Genoa will prepare for their next challenge against Lecce on January 5. Fans and teammates alike will wait with anticipation to see if they can carry this momentum forward and keep climbing up the Serie A table.
