Genova, Italy, ITA — Junior Messias delivered a decisive brace as Genoa held off a possession-heavy AS Roma side at Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Italian Serie A action.
Messias broke the deadlock in the 24th minute, giving the hosts an early advantage despite Roma controlling the ball for long stretches. The Brazilian winger doubled the lead in the 52nd minute, capitalizing on Genoa's direct and efficient approach against a Roma side that dominated territory but struggled to convert pressure into clear chances.
Roma responded quickly through Evan Ndicka in the 55th minute, trimming the deficit and setting up a tense final half-hour. The visitors pushed for an equalizer with the ball largely at their feet, but Genoa's defensive organization held firm. Vítinha put the result beyond doubt in the 80th minute, restoring the two-goal cushion and effectively ending Roma's hopes of salvaging a point.
GOALS:- 24' Junior Messias - Genoa- 52' Junior Messias - Genoa- 55' Evan Ndicka - Roma- 80' Vítinha - Genoa
STANDOUT PLAYERS:- Genoa: Junior Messias - 2 goals, clinical finishing against the run of play- AS Roma: Evan Ndicka - Pulled one back with Roma's lone shot on target
KEY STAT: Roma held 64.4% possession but managed just 1 shot on target from 8 attempts, while Genoa converted 2 of their 5 shots on target into goals.