Genoa coach praises the Ferraris atmosphere after a crucial victory in the relegation fight
Daniele De Rossi described Genoa’s 2–1 victory over AS Roma as a vital step in the club’s push away from the relegation zone.
The win at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris lifts Genoa CFC to 13th place in the Serie A standings with 30 points — a significant boost in a tightly contested mid-table battle.
“These points were essential,” De Rossi said in his post-match press conference. “Every time you win you move further away from the dangerous zone, and that’s exactly what we needed.”
A Dramatic Match
Genoa struck first through a penalty converted by Junior Messias, before Roma quickly responded with an equalizer from defender Evan Ndicka.
The decisive moment arrived late in the match when Vitinha scored the winning goal, securing three crucial points for the home side.
It was Genoa’s second win in their last three matches and a strong response after their recent defeat to Inter.
Respect for Roma
Facing his former club made the victory emotionally complex for De Rossi, who spent the majority of his playing career at Roma.
The Genoa coach chose not to celebrate the winning goal out of respect for the club and its supporters.
“Not celebrating was the least I could do,” he said. “It’s the minimum I owe the Roma fans and the players who helped me become the coach of a Serie A team.”
Still, De Rossi made clear that the importance of the result for Genoa could not be ignored.
“We needed these points like bread,” he said. “After that, we can go back to being friends.”
The Power of the Ferraris
De Rossi also praised the unique atmosphere at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, which has become a key factor in Genoa’s home performances.
“Experiencing the Ferraris is a privilege,” he said. “What I’m seeing here is something special.”
The coach highlighted the passion of the supporters and the energy coming from the iconic Gradinata Nord.
“It’s incredible — the stadium, the stands, the way the fans push the team,” he said.
De Rossi also expressed regret that Roma supporters were unable to attend the match.
“I would have liked to greet them like I did in the first game, with the same affection as always.”
Sabelli’s Leadership
Among the players singled out for praise was captain Stefano Sabelli.
De Rossi commended the defender for his commitment and professionalism.
“He played a serious match,” the coach said. “He cares deeply about this club and he’s training much better than before.”
According to De Rossi, Sabelli’s leadership is once again becoming an important part of Genoa’s identity.
“He’s returning to being the captain he once was.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the win, De Rossi warned that Genoa cannot relax.
The next challenge will come against Verona, another crucial match for teams battling in the lower half of the table.
“If we don’t approach that game seriously, it will mean I’ve done a terrible job during the week,” De Rossi said.
For now, though, Genoa can celebrate a victory that could prove vital in shaping the rest of their season.
