2' min
Verona returns to winning ways after four matches, securing a crucial away victory against a struggling Monza. Zanetti’s side takes home three invaluable points thanks to an own goal by Lekovic in the 13th minute, boosting their survival hopes. For Monza, the situation worsens, as they remain at the bottom of the table, now eight points away from safety.
Monza, already dealing with multiple injuries, is forced to reshuffle once again, with Vignato partnering Mota Carvalho in attack due to Caprari’s absence. Lekovic is retained in defense as part of a three-man backline. Meanwhile, Verona, missing Duda (suspended) and Tengstedt (injured), relies on Mosquera up front and Belahyane in midfield despite ongoing transfer rumors.
The match is quickly decided: in the 13th minute, Serdar makes a strong run down the right and delivers a dangerous cross into the box. In an attempt to clear the ball ahead of Mosquera, Lekovic inadvertently sends it into his own net. Monza struggles to respond and fails to create significant chances, heading into halftime trailing by one goal.
In the second half, Verona nearly doubles their lead in the 57th minute when Niasse wastes a golden opportunity in the box. Monza attempts to shift momentum with substitutions, bringing on Castrovilli and Martins, but their task becomes even tougher as goalkeeper Turati picks up an injury and is forced off, making way for Pizzignacco. The substitute keeper is immediately called into action, making a key save to deny Mosquera’s header in the 70th minute.
As the hosts push for an equalizer, Verona remains solid at the back. In stoppage time, Mota Carvalho comes close with a header, but it drifts wide. Verona holds on for a vital victory, reaching 23 points and pulling away from the relegation zone. Monza, on the other hand, remains anchored at the bottom, with their Serie A survival hopes fading fast. For Bocchetti, whose squad has been severely weakened by injuries, this marks the fifth defeat in their last six games.
