Vlahovic Header Extends Perfect Start for Juventus in Hard-Fought Genoa Victory
GENOA – A second-half header from Dušan Vlahović proved decisive as Juventus ground out a 1-0 victory over a stubborn Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, maintaining their perfect start to the Serie A season.
The hard-fought win ensures the Bianconeri enter the international break with a maximum six points, continuing their remarkable unbeaten league record in matches where Vlahović finds the net (W26, D11).
In a match defined by missed chances, both sides struggled to break the other’s defense in a cagey first half. Juventus controlled much of the ambition but created little, while Genoa crafted the clearest opportunity. On 26 minutes, Mikael Egill Ellertsson was presented with a golden chance from a pullback inside the box but could only muster a weak effort that was easily saved.
Juventus rallied before the break, forcing Genoa goalkeeper Nicola Leali into a smart save from Federico Gatti before Jonathan David uncharacteristically blazed a rebound over the bar from point-blank range.
The pattern of spurned opportunities continued after the interval. Ellertsson was again frustrated for Genoa, while Juventus’ Khéphren Thuram fired wide on a counter-attack. As the game opened up, Juventus found an extra gear.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 73rd minute from a set piece. Serbian international Filip Kostić delivered a perfect corner onto the head of his countryman Vlahović, who made no mistake from close range to score his second goal in as many games.
Genoa, who had defended resolutely for over 70 minutes, struggled to mount a response. Vlahović had a chance to kill the game late but hesitated, allowing a block. The hosts’ last-gasp opportunity fell to Caleb Ekuban, whose powerful strike forced an excellent save from Michele Di Gregorio on the final kick of the game.
The result leaves Juventus sitting comfortably among the early league leaders with a perfect record. For Genoa, there is frustration after squandering key opportunities, as their search for a first win over Juventus since May 2022 continues.