Late Equaliser By Messias Seals 2-2 Draw For Genoa Against Inter

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Junior Messias netted a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time, ensuring Genoa secured a 2-2 draw against Inter at Luigi Ferraris. Messias capitalised on a rebound after Yann Sommer saved his initial penalty attempt, levelling the score in the fifth minute of added time.

Genoa initially took the lead 20 minutes into the match when Alessandro Vogliacco tapped in after Mattia Bani's shot ricocheted off the crossbar and into his path. This early goal set the tone for an intense game.

Inter responded quickly, equalising just 10 minutes later. Marcus Thuram headed home Nicolo Barella's lofted cross, bringing the score to 1-1 and reigniting Inter's hopes for a winning start to their Scudetto defence.

The second half saw Inter applying significant pressure on Genoa's defence. Their efforts paid off eight minutes from time when Thuram completed his brace. He latched onto Davide Frattesi's through ball and lifted it over Pierluigi Gollini, putting Inter ahead 2-1.

However, the drama was far from over. In the dying moments of stoppage time, Yann Bisseck was penalised for handball following a VAR review. Despite Sommer saving Messias' penalty, the Brazilian was quick to react and slotted home the rebound, securing a point for Genoa.

Historical Context

This result marked only the second time in 14 seasons that the reigning Scudetto holders failed to win their league opener. The last instance was Juventus' defeat in 2015-16. Inter were on track to win their first matchday for a sixth consecutive Serie A season until Messias' late intervention.

The draw also extended Inter's current streak of three consecutive Serie A draws, a sequence they last experienced under Antonio Conte in January 2020.

This thrilling encounter highlighted both teams' resilience and determination. Genoa's late equaliser denied Inter a perfect start to their title defence, showcasing how unpredictable football can be.