Roma Surges to Victory with Pisilli’s Goal Against Venezia

MILAN (AP) — A dramatic turn of events unfolded at the Stadio Olimpico as Roma claimed a 2-1 victory over newly-promoted Venezia in a gripping Serie A encounter on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

Niccolò Pisilli, a midfielder who has been part of Roma since his youth, was pivotal in the match, scoring his first Serie A goal and contributing to the team’s comeback victory. Despite taking over a team in turmoil, the Giallorossi‘s new coach, Ivan Jurić, has managed to secure wins in his first two league matches at the helm.

Venezia appeared poised for an upset when Joel Pohjanpalo scored just before halftime, capitalizing on Gianluca Busio‘s shot that hit the post. Roma defender Gianluca Mancini later made a crucial goal-line clearance to prevent Venezia from extending its lead, leaving the home fans anxious at the break.

Controversy struck early in the second half when Venezia’s Ridgeciano Haps had a goal disallowed for offside. Roma equalized in the 75th minute in what was described as a fortunate outcome; Bryan Cristante‘s powerful shot deflected off Busio, leading to a looped goal over Venezia’s goalkeeper, Jesse Joronen.

The turning point came in the 83rd minute when Pisilli, just a week past his 20th birthday, headed in the winning goal from a corner, igniting celebrations among the home supporters.

“It’s a huge step for me and the team,” Pisilli expressed after the match. “Scoring this goal at home means everything.”

Meanwhile, Torino, who had emerged as surprise leaders, suffered a setback with a 3-2 defeat at home to Lazio. Nuno Tavares, on loan from Arsenal, provided another assist, while Boulaye Dia and Tijjani Noslin also found the net for Lazio. Saul Coco delivered a spectacular acrobatic goal for Torino in stoppage time, though it was insufficient to change the outcome.

In other Serie A matches, Como edged out Hellas Verona 3-2, further contributing to the weekend’s football drama. The results highlight an engaging Serie A season where the standings remain tight and contested.

Roma’s victory, while significant, comes amid ongoing challenges following the recent dismissal of coach Daniele De Rossi. The palpable tension among supporters suggests that Roma’s struggles may not yet be over, looking ahead to their next fixtures.