Genoa overturn an early deficit with goals from Ekhator and Colombo, sealing a crucial win that all but guarantees Serie A safety.
Genoa came from behind to beat Pisa 2-1 on Matchday 33, taking a major step toward securing Serie A survival while pushing their opponents closer to relegation.
The hosts had taken the lead early on, but costly mistakes and Genoa’s attacking efficiency turned the match around.
Canestrelli Opens, Pisa Dream Briefly
Pisa started brightly and found the breakthrough in the 19th minute through Simone Canestrelli, who powered home a header from a corner delivered by Angori.
The home side had opportunities to double their lead, with Angori again involved but unable to convert a promising chance.
Despite their early control, Pisa failed to capitalize—and Genoa began to grow into the game.
Ekhator Levels Before the Break
Genoa’s response came just before halftime. Ekhator showed composure inside the box, firing home with his left foot to bring the visitors level and shift the momentum.
The equalizer rewarded a more assertive approach from Daniele De Rossi’s side, who had gradually taken control after a difficult start.
Colombo Completes the Turnaround
Early in the second half, Genoa completed the comeback. A handball by Canestrelli inside the box—following a shot from Tommaso Baldanzi—led to a penalty.
Lorenzo Colombo stepped up and converted from the spot in the 55th minute, giving Genoa a lead they would not relinquish.
Genoa Hold Firm, Pisa Slide Toward Relegation
Pisa pushed for an equalizer in the final stages, but Genoa’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Justin Bijlow making an important save to preserve the advantage.
The result lifts Genoa to 39 points, effectively securing their place in Serie A for next season. For Pisa, however, the defeat leaves them increasingly close to relegation, with time running out to turn things around.
Match Report
Pisa 1-2 Genoa
Goals: 19’ Canestrelli (P), 41’ Ekhator (G), 55’ pen. Colombo (G)
Pisa (3-5-2): Semper; Calabresi (61’ Vural), Caracciolo, Canestrelli; Touré (70’ Piccinini), Loyola (56’ Meister), Aebischer, Akinsanmiro (61’ Cuadrado), Angori; Moreo, Tramoni (70’ Durosinmi).
Head Coach: Jens Gustafsson Hiljemark
Genoa (3-4-1-2): Bijlow; Marcandalli, Ostigard, Vasquez; Martin, Masini, Amorim (78’ Vitinha), Sabelli (87’ Otoa); Baldanzi (65’ Messias); Colombo (78’ Ekuban), Ekhator (65’ Onana).
Head Coach: Daniele De Rossi
Referee: Crezzini
Yellow Cards: Calabresi, Ostigard, Aebischer
Red Cards: None