CREMONA, ITALY — Yael Trepy's dramatic 88th-minute equalizer rescued a precious point for Cagliari as they fought back to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against Cremonese at Stadio Giovanni Zini. The visitors looked destined for defeat after falling behind twice, but Trepy's composed finish from Luca Mazzitelli's through ball capped a remarkable comeback that left the home faithful stunned in the closing stages.
The match exploded into life within the opening four minutes when Jamie Vardy's experience shone through. The veteran striker, showing his predatory instincts remain sharp, was perfectly positioned to convert Dennis Johnsen's cross with a clinical right-footed finish into the bottom right corner. The early goal set the tone for what would become a captivating encounter between two sides desperate for points in their battle against relegation fears.
Vardy's influence extended beyond his opener, as the former Leicester City star turned provider in the 29th minute. His perfectly weighted pass released Johnsen on a devastating counter-attack, and the Norwegian winger made no mistake with his right-footed strike from the center of the box, doubling Cremonese's advantage and leaving Cagliari shell-shocked. The home crowd erupted as their side appeared to be cruising toward a comfortable victory.
However, Cagliari's response before the break proved crucial to their eventual comeback. Michel Adopo's stunning strike from outside the box in the 51st minute breathed new life into the visitors' challenge. The midfielder's left-footed effort, assisted by Gennaro Borrelli, found the bottom right corner with precision that goalkeeper Emil Audero could only admire. The goal shifted the momentum dramatically, with Cagliari suddenly believing they could salvage something from their trip to Lombardy.
Despite dominating possession at 56.4%, Cagliari struggled to convert their territorial advantage into clear-cut chances throughout the contest. Their 21 attempts yielded just five shots on target, highlighting their wastefulness in the final third. Cremonese, by contrast, proved far more clinical with their limited opportunities, managing five shots on target from just 12 attempts. The statistics painted a picture of Cagliari's frustration as they controlled the ball but lacked the cutting edge to truly trouble Audero consistently.
The tactical battle intensified as both managers made crucial substitutions in the final third of the match. Cremonese introduced fresh legs in an attempt to maintain their slender advantage, while Cagliari coach Claudio Ranieri threw caution to the wind with attacking changes. The introduction of Yael Trepy proved inspired, as the substitute's movement and positioning would ultimately prove decisive in the dying moments.
As the clock ticked toward full-time, tension gripped the Stadio Giovanni Zini. Cremonese appeared to be holding firm, with their defense absorbing wave after wave of Cagliari pressure. Luca Mazzitelli had earlier seen a header saved by Audero in the 86th minute, while Gabriele Zappa fired wide from promising positions. The home supporters sensed their team was on the verge of a vital three points that would boost their survival hopes significantly.
But football's capacity for late drama was perfectly illustrated when Trepy struck with just two minutes remaining. Mazzitelli's vision and execution were exemplary as he threaded a perfect through ball into the path of the substitute, who kept his composure under pressure to slot home with his left foot. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the traveling supporters and left Cremonese players devastated as they saw victory snatched from their grasp.
The final whistle brought mixed emotions for both sets of players and supporters. Cagliari's players celebrated as if they had won, knowing they had rescued a point when defeat seemed certain. For Cremonese, the disappointment was palpable as they reflected on a two-goal lead that had slipped through their fingers in the most dramatic fashion possible.
Looking ahead, Cremonese will host Juventus on January 12 in what promises to be a daunting challenge against the Turin giants, while Cagliari will welcome Genoa to Sardinia on the same date as they continue their fight for Serie A survival.