Genoa secures it spot in Europe

Genoa's stunning achievement from Serie B side to European football was etched in stone as the Rossoblu played Chievo to a 2-2 draw at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Sunday afternoon. With the result Genoa is firmly locked fifth in the table with a five margin above Roma, with remaining matches against Torino and Lecce.

After a resounding start for the home-side that came out short, it was Chievo that took the shocking lead ten minutes prior to the break as Luciano's provision from the byline to the right was volleyed in by Giampiero Pinzi from a few metres out. The goal came after a series of brilliant advances from Giuseppe Sculli and Boško Janković, each ending in frustration. A goal down now Genoa raced back with the Crvena Zvezda product Janković proving why he is mentioned as a target by a number of squads, creating a number of chances. Genoa was fortunate not to trail by two at the break as a late surging run ending with a goal by Sergio Pellissier was erased due to a handball. However without further mark the match went to the break with the side from beautiful Verona holding a one goal lead. Eight minutes after the restart Genoa had its chance as the spot was pointed to as Mario Yepes was adjudged a penalty. Diego Milito quickly strode up and confidently drove the ball into the net bringing the faithful to their feet realizing European football nears. With nineteen minutes left, Rubén Olivera struck a free-kick to the upper right corner to give Genoa the 2-1 lead. Thoughts of the victory ended with five minutes left as Sergio Pellissier headed-in Simone Bentivoglio's corner to square the match at two but that certainly did not hold back the celebration as Genoa has secured its spot in Europe.