Verona, Italy (AP) - September 16: Jamie Vardy's anticipated Serie A debut ended without a goal, as Cremonese and Verona played out their first scoreless draw in nearly four decades this past Monday. Despite Vardy's presence, the match left much to be desired in terms of offensive breakthroughs.
Vardy, hailed as one of England's standout scorers in recent years, joined Cremonese on transfer deadline day and made his entrance as a substitute, replacing Federico Bonazzoli in the 58th minute. However, the 38-year-old veteran, with accolades including the Premier League and FA Cup under his belt, couldn't deliver a scoring debut.
Most of the thrilling chances fell to Verona, with the home team striving for its first victory since February 23. Giovane had multiple opportunities squandered, and Gift Orban similarly missed key chances, resulting in Cremonese's hitherto perfect season coming to a halt.
The draw propels Cremonese to third in the standings, while Verona languishes at 16th, having garnered only two points from their opening three fixtures. The tightly contested match brims with implications for the standings as the season progresses.
Como Secures Draw Against Genoa
In the evening clash, a last-gasp effort from Genoa ensured a 1-1 draw against Como. Amidst an intensifying late-game drama, Genoa salvaged a point in stoppage time.
Como's Nico Paz, who earned the Serie A Rising Star accolade for August, demonstrated his prowess by opening the scoring after just 13 minutes with a superb shot from beyond the penalty area. Despite his early brilliance, the game took a dramatic turn.
Como coach Cesc Fabregas looked set to continue his unbeaten streak over his former Arsenal colleague, Patrick Vieira, a prospect that was thwarted when Caleb Ekuban netted an equalizer for Genoa after a hectic goalmouth scramble two minutes into stoppage time. Adding to the late-game tension, Como's Jacobo Ramon was issued a red card three minutes prior.
Despite their valiant comeback, Genoa remains winless after three matches, although the draw elevates them from a share of last place. The competitive nature of Serie A remains evident with each passing fixture. (AP)
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