Introduction

On January 25, 2026, the Stadio Luigi Ferraris witnessed a Serie A thriller that epitomized resilience and tactical depth. Genoa CFC, under the guidance of Daniele De Rossi, secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Bologna, overturning a two-goal deficit in the dying stages of the match. Central to this narrative was Ghanaian international striker Caleb Ekuban, whose introduction in the second half catalyzed a momentum shift that turned despair into delirium for the home supporters.

This match report provides a comprehensive breakdown of the game’s turning points, a statistical analysis of Ekuban’s season performance, and the tactical implications of this vital result. By examining the sequence of events—from the early setback to the stoppage-time winner—we uncover how Genoa engineered one of the most exciting advancements of the 2025–26 campaign.

Key Points

Background

The 2025–26 Serie A season has presented a challenging environment for both Genoa and Bologna. Entering this fixture, consistency had been elusive for Daniele De Rossi’s side, making the visit of a solid Bologna team a daunting prospect. The Stadio Luigi Ferraris, usually a fortress, had seen its share of struggles, and the atmosphere was tense as the match commenced.

The Pre-Match Context

Genoa entered the match seeking to stabilize their league position. Bologna, conversely, arrived with aspirations of climbing the table, boasting a disciplined defensive structure and effective counter-attacking play. The stakes were high: three points were essential for Genoa to avoid being dragged into a relegation scrap, while Bologna aimed to solidify their standing in the upper-mid table.

Player Roles and Expectations

Caleb Ekuban, the 31-year-old Ghanaian striker, began the match on the bench. Throughout the 2025–26 campaign, Ekuban has been utilized primarily as a “super-sub”—a tactical option brought on to exploit tired defenses in the latter stages of games. His physicality and aerial ability offer a distinct contrast to Genoa’s starting forwards, making him a valuable asset in specific match scenarios.

Analysis

The match unfolded in three distinct phases: Bologna’s early dominance, the game-altering intervention of a red card, and Genoa’s late offensive surge.

Phase 1: The Early Setback

The first half remained relatively balanced, but the second half exploded into action early. Bologna capitalized on defensive lapses by Genoa, racing to a 2-0 lead. The first goal came via an own goal, a stroke of misfortune that rattled the home defense. Shortly after, Lewis Ferguson struck a clinical finish past the Genoa goalkeeper, doubling the visitors’ advantage and placing immense pressure on De Rossi’s men.

Phase 2: The Turning Point

The momentum shifted dramatically in the 60th minute when Bologna goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski received a red card. This forced Bologna to play with ten men and a backup goalkeeper, disrupting their defensive solidity. Genoa seized this opportunity immediately. Ruslan Malinovskyi stepped up to deliver a stunning free-kick, reducing the deficit to 2-1 and reigniting hope within the stadium.

Phase 3: The Ekuban Effect

In the 73rd minute, Coach De Rossi introduced Caleb Ekuban to the pitch. The intent was clear: inject physicality and direct attacking threat. The decision paid dividends almost instantly.

Just five minutes later, in the 78th minute, Ekuban orchestrated the equalizer. A dynamic cross from Alessandro Marcandalli found Ekuban in the box. Displaying exceptional reflexes and technique, Ekuban met the ball with a right-footed volley from seven yards out. The shot rocketed into the top corner, leaving the substitute goalkeeper with no chance. This goal (his second of the season) demonstrated his ability to convert half-chances in crowded penalty areas.

Phase 4: The Decisive Blow

With the score level at 2-2 and Bologna’s defense reeling, the game entered stoppage time. The numerical advantage finally told as Genoa pressed for the winner. Junior Messias, another impactful substitute, received the ball on the edge of the box. He cut inside and curled a precise left-footed finish into the far corner, securing a 3-2 victory and sending the Luigi Ferraris into raptures.

Practical Advice

For football analysts, fantasy football enthusiasts, and bettors, the Genoa vs. Bologna match offers several actionable insights regarding player utilization and match dynamics.

Understanding the “Super-Sub” Value

Caleb Ekuban’s performance highlights the tactical value of impact players. In fantasy football or betting markets, players used as substitutes often offer high value-per-minute ratios.

• Monitor Minutes Played: Ekuban averages roughly 31 minutes per appearance (537 total minutes this season). When targeting goal contributions, look for players who are consistently utilized in the final 20-30 minutes of matches.
• Contextual Usage: Ekuban is most effective when Genoa is chasing a game or when the opposition defense is fatigued. Betting on “anytime goalscorer” markets for such players is often most viable when their team is the underdog or trailing.

Analyzing Match Momentum Shifts

The red card shown to Lukasz Skorupski was the statistical pivot point of the game.

• Live Betting Indicators: In live sports betting, a red card to a goalkeeper is a significant indicator of a momentum shift. Unlike an outfield player, a goalkeeper’s absence immediately weakens the defensive structure and forces the opposing team to play a high-risk defensive line.
• Set-Piece Focus: Following a red card, the trailing team often focuses on set-pieces and crosses (as seen with Marcandalli’s header leading to Ekuban’s goal). Analyzing cross frequency pre- and post-red card can predict scoring opportunities.

Performance Metrics for Strikers

Ekuban’s stat line (2 goals, 1 assist in limited minutes) suggests high efficiency.

• Conversion Rate: For strikers with fewer minutes, raw totals are less important than conversion rates. Ekuban’s volley against Bologna shows a high technical ceiling.
• Fixture Analysis: Genoa’s advancement against Bologna suggests that against teams with disciplined defenses (like Bologna), individual brilliance often trumps systemic dominance. When analyzing future fixtures, consider the “xG” (expected goals) relative to the opposition’s defensive errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did Genoa play Bologna in this fixture?

The match took place on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa.

What was the final score of Genoa vs. Bologna?

The final score was Genoa 3, Bologna 2. Genoa overturned a 2-0 deficit to win in stoppage time.

Who scored the goals for Genoa?

Genoa’s goals were scored by Ruslan Malinovskyi (free-kick), Caleb Ekuban (volley), and Junior Messias (curling finish).

How many goals has Caleb Ekuban scored this season?

As of January 25, 2026, Caleb Ekuban has scored 2 goals in the 2025–26 Serie A campaign. He has also provided one assist, totaling three goal contributions.

What is Caleb Ekuban’s role at Genoa?

At 31 years old, Ekuban is primarily used as an impact substitute. He averages approximately 31 minutes per appearance and is utilized to bring physical presence and fresh energy to the attack late in matches.

What was the key turning point in the Genoa vs. Bologna match?

The key turning point was a red card shown to Bologna’s goalkeeper, Lukasz Skorupski. This allowed Genoa to capitalize with a free-kick goal and subsequently dominate the attack, leading to two late goals.

Has Genoa improved their league position with this win?

While specific league positions fluctuate throughout the season, securing three points against a direct rival like Bologna significantly boosts Genoa’s survival hopes and momentum under Daniele De Rossi.

Conclusion

The 3-2 victory over Bologna serves as a testament to Genoa’s fighting spirit and tactical adaptability under Daniele De Rossi. While the team faced significant adversity in the form of a two-goal deficit, the collective response—sparked by the dismissal of the opposition goalkeeper and the introduction of Caleb Ekuban—showcased a resilience that will be vital for the remainder of the 2025–26 Serie A season.

For Caleb Ekuban, this performance reinforces his status as a reliable utility player for Genoa. His ability to score a technically difficult volley under pressure highlights his quality and importance to the squad, even in a limited role. As the season progresses, Genoa will look to build on this momentum, using the energy from this dramatic comeback to secure further advancements in the league table.