Empoli faced a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home against Genoa, a match that saw them squander a crucial penalty opportunity. The goals from Milan Badelj and Caleb Ekuban secured the win for the visitors, leaving Empoli to reflect on missed chances.
Both teams entered the match looking to bounce back after recent losses, with Empoli missing several key players, including Mattia Viti, Pietro Pellegri, Ola Solbakken, Nicolas Haas, Tyronne Ebuehi, and Saba Sazonov. Genoa, fresh off their first defeat under new manager Patrick Vieira, were without Mario Balotelli and other injured players like Alan Matturro and Junior Messias.
The match started with an early scare for Empoli as Emmanuel Gyasi nearly scored within the first minute but was flagged offside. Liam Henderson had a chance to put Empoli ahead but misfired from a promising position. At the other end, Genoa’s Tino Anjorin tested goalkeeper Stefano Turati, who made a solid save.
As the first half progressed, Liberato Cacace came close to scoring for Empoli with a powerful shot that was deflected onto the post by Genoa’s Nicola Leali. However, it was Genoa who struck first just after halftime. Vitinha capitalized on a defensive error to set up Badelj, who scored from close range.
Empoli was awarded a penalty after VAR reviewed a foul by Johan Vasquez on Sebastiano Esposito. Unfortunately for the hosts, Esposito’s penalty was saved by Leali, hitting the post instead of finding the net. Despite this setback, Esposito later redeemed himself by scoring with a looping header from Anjorin’s assist.
Genoa extended their lead when substitutes combined effectively; Fabio Miretti assisted Caleb Ekuban for a simple tap-in. Although Esposito’s goal gave Empoli hope, they could not find an equalizer despite several attempts.
Goals: Badelj 46 (G), Ekuban 68 (G), Esposito 74 (E)
Empoli (3-4-2-1): Vasquez; Goglichidze ( 71′ De Sciglio), Ismajli, Henderson; Gyasi, Anjorin (’80’ Marianucci), Grassi (71′ Maleh), Pezzella; Esposito, Cacace (’80’ Ekong); Colombo
Genoa (4-3-3): Leali; Norton-Cuffy (39′ Sabelli), Bani, Vasquez, Martin; Thorsby (’82’ De Winter), Badelj (62′ Masini), Frendrup; Zanoli (62′ Miretti), Pinamonti (dl 62′ Ekuban), Vitinha
