In a thrilling encounter at the Bluenergy Stadium, Udinese and Sassuolo faced off on the 16th matchday of the 2023/2024 Serie A season. The rivals produced a spectacle reflecting the excitement typical of these fixtures.
The game concluded in a breath-taking 2-2 draw, branded by moments of high drama and impressive individual displays. The closing minutes of the game were particularly intense, with Sassulo’s Berardi securing a brace from the penalty spot, enough to level the scores at the 88-minute mark. The penalty was awarded after a foul by Udinese’s Kabasele on Mulattieri.
In another twist of fate, Sassuolo nearly snatched victory towards the end when Ferrari’s header tantalisingly hit the goal post in the 84th minute. Berardi had earlier reduced the deficit to a single goal, scoring his first penalty of the match in the 75th minute. His opportunity arose after Ebosele had clumsily fouled Pinamonti, causing the VAR to confirm a penalty decision.
Udinese looked solid in the first half, taking the lead through Lucca’s header in the 35th minute. They doubled their advantage in the 54th minute when Argentine Pereyra capitalized on a loose ball in the box, sidestepping Ferrari and beating Consigli with a thunderous shot.
However, Udinese’s momentum was disrupted when Payero was sent off in the 59th minute for a rash tackle on Erlic, a decision made after a VAR review.
As the dust settled after an eventful match, it was clear that both teams had their share of breathtaking moments and tales of what could’ve been. The players left the field knowing they had put on a show worthy of the league’s reputation.