Roma's Attacking Trio Shine in Commanding Victory Over Genoa
Key Takeaways
- • AS Roma cruised to a 3-1 victory over struggling Genoa at the Olimpico
- • Soulé, Koné, and Ferguson struck before halftime to seal Roma's dominant display
- • The Giallorossi controlled 60.6% possession and created 16 shots to Genoa's 10
Players in this Match
Matías Soulé opened the floodgates in the 14th minute, cutting inside from the right flank and drilling a left-footed shot into the center of the goal. The Argentine's clinical finish set the tone for what would become a one-sided first half. Just five minutes later, Manu Koné doubled the advantage with a right-footed strike to the bottom right corner, expertly assisted by Evan Ferguson's intelligent play. Ferguson then turned from provider to scorer in the 31st minute, slotting home from the center of the box to give Roma a commanding 3-0 cushion before halftime.
The tactical battle was decidedly one-sided, with Roma's midfield trio of Koné, Bryan Cristante, and Paulo Dybala controlling proceedings throughout. Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso stood firm at the back, rarely troubled by Genoa's toothless attack. Despite 10 attempts from the visitors, only two tested Jan Ziółkowski in the Roma goal. Genoa goalkeeper Daniele Sommariva was called into action five times, making crucial saves to prevent further embarrassment, including a fine stop to deny Cristante's long-range effort in the 72nd minute.
By the numbers, Roma's superiority was evident across every metric. The hosts created more chances with 16 shots compared to Genoa's 10, while their accuracy told an even starker story—eight on target versus just two. Roma also dominated territorially with six corners to Genoa's solitary set piece, though both sides committed 13 fouls in a relatively clean encounter that saw only one yellow card.
Soulé's early opener visibly deflated the struggling visitors and allowed Roma to dictate terms. Genoa manager Alberto Gilardino made wholesale changes in the second half, introducing five substitutes including Jeff Ekhator, who grabbed a consolation goal in the 87th minute with a right-footed shot to the bottom left corner. However, by then the damage was done, and Roma comfortably managed the final minutes.
Looking ahead, both sides return to action on January 3, with Roma traveling to face Atalanta while Genoa visit Pisa.