Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw at Genoa as Federico Chiesa's first-half penalty was cancelled out by Albert Gudmundsson after the break, leaving the visitors a point off top spot in Serie A.

Massimiliano Allegri's side are second on 37 points behind Inter Milan, who visit Lazio on Sunday. Genoa are 14th with 16 points, four points clear of the relegation zone.

"It's not easy to play against Genoa," Allegri told Mediaset. "We have to grow in scoring because this is the only way we can stay at the top of the table.

"We needed more calmness and brightness, but it's an important point that continues the positive streak and the performance made me happy."

The visitors took the lead after 28 minutes, thanks to Chiesa, who made no mistake from the penalty spot after being brought down by goalkeeper Josep Martinez.

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Genoa levelled three minutes into the second half after a fine passing build-up left Gudmundsson with an opportunity in front of goal to fire past keeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Juventus came close to a last-minute winner but Martinez made a brilliant save to keep out Bremer's close-range effort after a corner.

"We have to improve, sometimes we get caught up in the frenzy. There have always been things to improve, not only today," Juve midfielder Manuel Locatelli told DAZN.

"We conceded a goal that we usually don't concede, these things can happen, but then you have to react. Opportunities must be seized. We have to take the leap of scoring more and closing out games," he further said.

Juve next play at mid-table Frosinone next Saturday.

"There's regret, we wanted to come here and win. Now we have to work for Frosinone. We have the same hunger as always. The spirit is the right one to move forward," Locatelli added.

Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw at Genoa as Federico Chiesa's first-half penalty was cancelled out by Albert Gudmundsson after the break, leaving the visitors a point off top spot in Serie A.

Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw at Genoa as Federico Chiesa's first-half penalty was cancelled out by Albert Gudmundsson after the break, leaving the visitors a point off top spot in Serie A. Massimiliano Allegri's side are second on 37 points behind Inter Milan, who visit Lazio on Sunday. Genoa are 14th with 16 points, four points clear of the relegation zone. "It's not easy to play against Genoa," Allegri told Mediaset. "We have to grow in scoring because this is the only way we can stay at the top of the table. "We needed more calmness and brightness, but it's an important point that continues the positive streak and the performance made me happy." The visitors took the lead after 28 minutes, thanks to Chiesa, who made no mistake from the penalty spot after being brought down by goalkeeper Josep Martinez. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola mulls potential move to replace outgoing Kalvin Phillips at Manchester City Genoa levelled three minutes into the second half after a fine passing build-up left Gudmundsson with an opportunity in front of goal to fire past keeper Wojciech Szczesny. Juventus came close to a last-minute winner but Martinez made a brilliant save to keep out Bremer's close-range effort after a corner. "We have to improve, sometimes we get caught up in the frenzy. There have always been things to improve, not only today," Juve midfielder Manuel Locatelli told DAZN. "We conceded a goal that we usually don't concede, these things can happen, but then you have to react. Opportunities must be seized. We have to take the leap of scoring more and closing out games," he further said. Juve next play at mid-table Frosinone next Saturday. "There's regret, we wanted to come here and win. Now we have to work for Frosinone. We have the same hunger as always. The spirit is the right one to move forward," Locatelli added.

Serie A: Juventus miss chance to go on top after stalemate at Genoa

Genoa midfielder Manolo Portanova has been sentenced to six years in jail for involvement in the gang rape of a young woman last year, Italian media reported on Tuesday. Portanova, now 22, was initially placed under house arrest in June last year after being charged for the incident in the central city of Siena in May 2021.

Media reports said Portanova's lawyers would appeal against the sentence handed down in a summary judgement. A source, not authorised to speak to media, told Reuters last year that the 23-year-old woman informed police she had been raped by four men in an apartment after dinner at a restaurant on May 31.

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Portanova, whose uncle was sentenced to the same term under the fast-track legal process, had denied the charges against him. One of the accused opted for a full jury trial while a fourth was a minor at the time and is due to appear before a youth tribunal in Florence, media said.

Genoa, established in 1893 and Italy's oldest soccer club, were relegated from Serie A last season and are now fifth in Serie B.

Genoa midfielder Manolo Portanova has been sentenced to six years in jail for involvement in the gang rape of a young woman last year, Italian media reported on Tuesday.

Genoa midfielder Manolo Portanova has been sentenced to six years in jail for involvement in the gang rape of a young woman last year, Italian media reported on Tuesday. Portanova, now 22, was initially placed under house arrest in June last year after being charged for the incident in the central city of Siena in May 2021. Media reports said Portanova's lawyers would appeal against the sentence handed down in a summary judgement. A source, not authorised to speak to media, told Reuters last year that the 23-year-old woman informed police she had been raped by four men in an apartment after dinner at a restaurant on May 31. Also read: FIFA 2022: Japan's manager Hajime Moriyasu bows to fans in gratitude after his team's R16 loss vs Croatia Portanova, whose uncle was sentenced to the same term under the fast-track legal process, had denied the charges against him. One of the accused opted for a full jury trial while a fourth was a minor at the time and is due to appear before a youth tribunal in Florence, media said. Genoa, established in 1893 and Italy's oldest soccer club, were relegated from Serie A last season and are now fifth in Serie B.

Genoa midfielder Manolo Portanova sentenced to six years for gang rape

Goals from Rafael Leao and Junior Messias earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Genoa on Friday, with Stefano Pioli`s side returning to the top of Serie A. Inter Milan had briefly climbed to the Serie A summit after their 3-1 success at Spezia earlier on Friday, putting pressure on their great rivals to respond as Milan look to win the Scudetto for the first time since 2011.

Without a goal in their previous two league games, Milan did not take long to get on the score sheet in the San Siro, with Pierre Kalulu picking out the perfect cross for Leao to volley home in the 11th minute.

But they again fell flat in the second half, struggling to find that killer second goal, with Genoa causing problems down the other end. Milan kept coming and finally made one count as Brazilian midfielder Messias hammered home three minutes from time to seal the win.

After securing their first win in three league matches, Milan moved onto 71 points from 33 matches, two clear of Inter who have a game in hand. Genoa remain 19th on 22 points, three points from the safety zone.

"The tension is felt, the pressure rises," Pioli told DAZN. "I told the guys that last year there was tension because we didn`t know whether we could finish in the top four.

"Now the pressure is there but it must lead to positive energies because we are fighting for a goal (the title) that when we started working together we could not have imagined.

"For many of us it is the first time fighting for the Scudetto but we want to be winning again and this experience will prove useful in the future as well."

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Goals had been hard to come by of late for Milan. Prior to successive 0-0 draws in their last two matches, Pioli`s side had only managed four strikes in their previous five games in all competitions.

Leao is one of several out-of-form strikers, but showed no lack of confidence when he fired his first goal since the end of February into the net.

The hosts should have had another later in the first half, but Belgian midfielder Alexis Saelemaekers missed his kick with the goal at his mercy.

Veteran striker Olivier Giroud saw one acrobatic second-half effort flash wide, but otherwise that final pass again was eluding Milan until the dying moments.

Substitute Ante Rebic turned provider for Messias, who converted from the rebound after his initial effort had been saved.

Defensively it was another successful night for Milan. Pioli is now only the third manager in the club`s history to keep a clean sheet in at least six games in a row in a single Serie A season.

Goals from Rafael Leao and Junior Messias earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Genoa on Friday, with Stefano Pioli`s side returning to the top of Serie A.

Goals from Rafael Leao and Junior Messias earned AC Milan a 2-0 victory over relegation-threatened Genoa on Friday, with Stefano Pioli`s side returning to the top of Serie A. Inter Milan had briefly climbed to the Serie A summit after their 3-1 success at Spezia earlier on Friday, putting pressure on their great rivals to respond as Milan look to win the Scudetto for the first time since 2011. Without a goal in their previous two league games, Milan did not take long to get on the score sheet in the San Siro, with Pierre Kalulu picking out the perfect cross for Leao to volley home in the 11th minute. But they again fell flat in the second half, struggling to find that killer second goal, with Genoa causing problems down the other end. Milan kept coming and finally made one count as Brazilian midfielder Messias hammered home three minutes from time to seal the win. After securing their first win in three league matches, Milan moved onto 71 points from 33 matches, two clear of Inter who have a game in hand. Genoa remain 19th on 22 points, three points from the safety zone. "The tension is felt, the pressure rises," Pioli told DAZN. "I told the guys that last year there was tension because we didn`t know whether we could finish in the top four. "Now the pressure is there but it must lead to positive energies because we are fighting for a goal (the title) that when we started working together we could not have imagined. "For many of us it is the first time fighting for the Scudetto but we want to be winning again and this experience will prove useful in the future as well." Also Read: Sensational Eintracht Frankfurt beat FC Barcelona 3-2 to reach Europa League last four Goals had been hard to come by of late for Milan. Prior to successive 0-0 draws in their last two matches, Pioli`s side had only managed four strikes in their previous five games in all competitions. Leao is one of several out-of-form strikers, but showed no lack of confidence when he fired his first goal since the end of February into the net. The hosts should have had another later in the first half, but Belgian midfielder Alexis Saelemaekers missed his kick with the goal at his mercy. Veteran striker Olivier Giroud saw one acrobatic second-half effort flash wide, but otherwise that final pass again was eluding Milan until the dying moments. Substitute Ante Rebic turned provider for Messias, who converted from the rebound after his initial effort had been saved. Defensively it was another successful night for Milan. Pioli is now only the third manager in the club`s history to keep a clean sheet in at least six games in a row in a single Serie A season.

AC Milan return to top of Serie A with battling victory over Genoa

Junior Messias scored a brace on his first AC Milan start as the Rossoneri thrashed Andriy Shevchenko's Genoa 3-0 on Wednesday to close the gap to Serie A leaders Napoli to one point.

Milan came into the game looking for an improvement after back-to-back league losses to Fiorentina and Sassuolo, and they took control early on at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris when Zlatan Ibrahimovic fired home a 10th-minute free kick.

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Brazilian winger Messias, who scored the winner against Atletico Madrid on his Champions League debut last week, was named in Stefano Pioli’s starting line-up for the first time and marked the occasion in style by scoring either side of halftime.

In Reggio Emilia, Sassuolo fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Napoli, leaving the Partenopei on 36 points, one ahead of second-placed Milan.

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Shevchenko, who won the Champions League and Serie A with the Rossoneri as a player, is still waiting for his first win as Genoa coach after three matches in charge, and his side are 18th with 10 points.

Junior Messias scored a brace on his first AC Milan start as the Rossoneri thrashed Andriy Shevchenko's Genoa 3-0 on Wednesday to close the gap to Serie A leaders Napoli to one point.

Junior Messias scored a brace on his first AC Milan start as the Rossoneri thrashed Andriy Shevchenko's Genoa 3-0 on Wednesday to close the gap to Serie A leaders Napoli to one point. Milan came into the game looking for an improvement after back-to-back league losses to Fiorentina and Sassuolo, and they took control early on at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris when Zlatan Ibrahimovic fired home a 10th-minute free kick. ALSO READ: Zlatan Ibrahimovic reveals he was close to joining Napoli before AC Milan return Brazilian winger Messias, who scored the winner against Atletico Madrid on his Champions League debut last week, was named in Stefano Pioli’s starting line-up for the first time and marked the occasion in style by scoring either side of halftime. In Reggio Emilia, Sassuolo fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Napoli, leaving the Partenopei on 36 points, one ahead of second-placed Milan. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi's father Jorge takes a sly dig at critics, who are saying PSG star didn't deserve Ballon d'Or Shevchenko, who won the Champions League and Serie A with the Rossoneri as a player, is still waiting for his first win as Genoa coach after three matches in charge, and his side are 18th with 10 points.

Serie A: Junior Messias strikes twice as AC Milan thump Andriy Shevchenko’s Genoa 3-0

In Genoa, the local aquarium is now welcoming guests again; a promising step to win tourists back.

Genoa aquarium in Italy reopens after months

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cristiano-ronaldo-hits-milestone-with-700th-career-goal-256054">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> converted a 96th-minute penalty as Juventus defeated Thiago Motta's Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in Serie A on Wednesday, while Napoli were left seething after conceding a disputed late equaliser against Atalanta.

Ronaldo sat out the 1-1 draw at Lecce over the weekend but Juve looked set to drop more points on his return in Turin as Christian Kouame's fluke equaliser cancelled out a header from Leonardo Bonucci.

The Portuguese forward saw a stoppage-time strike ruled out by VAR for offside before he won a last-gasp penalty after he was fouled by Toni Sanabria.

Ronaldo drilled the spot-kick low beyond Ionut Radu for his fifth league goal of the season to send Maurizio Sarri's Juve back above Inter Milan at the summit.

"It was a difficult game against a well-organised team but Juve must keep going until the end," Ronaldo told Sky Sport.

"We suffered a lot tonight but we created a lot and deserved this win."

Genoa, in their second game under Motta, played most of the second half with 10 men after Francesco Cassata was sent off, while Juve substitute Adrien Rabiot was dismissed late on for two bookable offences.

Atalanta twice fought back from a goal behind to hold Napoli to a 2-2 draw at the San Paolo, where a fiery ending resulted in red cards for Carlo Ancelotti and his assistant.&nbsp;

Josip Ilicic struck a contentious 86th-minute equaliser that was upheld following a lengthy VAR review, as Napoli appealed for a penalty.

Napoli forward Fernando Llorente tumbled to the ground after jostling with Simon Kjaer in the Atalanta area before the visitors countered and scored through Ilicic.

A five-minute interruption followed before the referee awarded the goal without reviewing the incident on the touchline monitor.&nbsp;

"I consider what happened an attack on my professionalism, my players and my club," Ancelotti said.

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was livid with the officiating.

"If there is VAR it's pointless creating eight minutes of additional time because all that happens is pushing and shouting," he told Sky Sport Italia.&nbsp;

"And what is this buffoonery from the referee who kicks out a gentleman like Ancelotti?

"We're fed up. Without us, the referees would be peeling potatoes. We're tired of paying for this standard of refereeing."

Nikola Maksimovic had headed Napoli into the lead on 16 minutes, but Remo Freuler levelled just before half-time when his shot squirmed through goalkeeper Alex Meret.

Polish striker Arkadiusz Milik hit the post and crossbar before putting Napoli back on top on 71 minutes when he raced onto a Fabian Ruiz pass and rounded Pierluigi Gollini.

However, Ilicic levelled and nearly grabbed a winner in stoppage time for Atalanta, who stayed third but now trail leaders Juve by five points.&nbsp;

"From the pitch, I thought it was a penalty. Then, seeing the images, I saw a big elbow to Kjaer's face," Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini said of the passage of play that led to his team's controversial equaliser.

"The images are very clear. Whoever was in the VAR booth confirmed what the referee saw, but I'm rightly biased."

Roma climbed above Napoli into fourth after a 4-0 rout of Udinese despite losing Federico Fazio to a red card on 31 minutes.

Nicolo Zaniolo opened the scoring before the dismissal of Fazio for a foul as the last defender.

Chris Smalling doubled Roma's lead early in the second half with a Justin Kluivert goal and Aleksandar Kolarov penalty wrapping up victory.

Ciro Immobile struck twice to take his league-leading tally to 12 goals as Lazio swept Torino aside 4-0.&nbsp;

Cagliari extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a 3-2 win over Bologna while Fiorentina came from behind to defeat Sassuolo 2-1.

Sampdoria remains rooted to the foot of the table despite Gaston Ramirez salvaging a 1-1 draw with an injury-time equaliser at home to Lecce.

&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo converted a 96th-minute penalty as Juventus defeated Thiago Motta's Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in Serie A on Wednesday, while Napoli were left seething after conceding a disputed late equaliser against Atalanta.

Cristiano Ronaldo converted a 96th-minute penalty as Juventus defeated Thiago Motta's Genoa 2-1 to reclaim top spot in Serie A on Wednesday, while Napoli were left seething after conceding a disputed late equaliser against Atalanta. Ronaldo sat out the 1-1 draw at Lecce over the weekend but Juve looked set to drop more points on his return in Turin as Christian Kouame's fluke equaliser cancelled out a header from Leonardo Bonucci. The Portuguese forward saw a stoppage-time strike ruled out by VAR for offside before he won a last-gasp penalty after he was fouled by Toni Sanabria. Ronaldo drilled the spot-kick low beyond Ionut Radu for his fifth league goal of the season to send Maurizio Sarri's Juve back above Inter Milan at the summit. "It was a difficult game against a well-organised team but Juve must keep going until the end," Ronaldo told Sky Sport. "We suffered a lot tonight but we created a lot and deserved this win." Genoa, in their second game under Motta, played most of the second half with 10 men after Francesco Cassata was sent off, while Juve substitute Adrien Rabiot was dismissed late on for two bookable offences. Atalanta twice fought back from a goal behind to hold Napoli to a 2-2 draw at the San Paolo, where a fiery ending resulted in red cards for Carlo Ancelotti and his assistant. Josip Ilicic struck a contentious 86th-minute equaliser that was upheld following a lengthy VAR review, as Napoli appealed for a penalty. Napoli forward Fernando Llorente tumbled to the ground after jostling with Simon Kjaer in the Atalanta area before the visitors countered and scored through Ilicic. A five-minute interruption followed before the referee awarded the goal without reviewing the incident on the touchline monitor. "I consider what happened an attack on my professionalism, my players and my club," Ancelotti said. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was livid with the officiating. "If there is VAR it's pointless creating eight minutes of additional time because all that happens is pushing and shouting," he told Sky Sport Italia. "And what is this buffoonery from the referee who kicks out a gentleman like Ancelotti? "We're fed up. Without us, the referees would be peeling potatoes. We're tired of paying for this standard of refereeing." Nikola Maksimovic had headed Napoli into the lead on 16 minutes, but Remo Freuler levelled just before half-time when his shot squirmed through goalkeeper Alex Meret. Polish striker Arkadiusz Milik hit the post and crossbar before putting Napoli back on top on 71 minutes when he raced onto a Fabian Ruiz pass and rounded Pierluigi Gollini. However, Ilicic levelled and nearly grabbed a winner in stoppage time for Atalanta, who stayed third but now trail leaders Juve by five points. "From the pitch, I thought it was a penalty. Then, seeing the images, I saw a big elbow to Kjaer's face," Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini said of the passage of play that led to his team's controversial equaliser. "The images are very clear. Whoever was in the VAR booth confirmed what the referee saw, but I'm rightly biased." Roma climbed above Napoli into fourth after a 4-0 rout of Udinese despite losing Federico Fazio to a red card on 31 minutes. Nicolo Zaniolo opened the scoring before the dismissal of Fazio for a foul as the last defender. Chris Smalling doubled Roma's lead early in the second half with a Justin Kluivert goal and Aleksandar Kolarov penalty wrapping up victory. Ciro Immobile struck twice to take his league-leading tally to 12 goals as Lazio swept Torino aside 4-0. Cagliari extended their unbeaten run to eight games with a 3-2 win over Bologna while Fiorentina came from behind to defeat Sassuolo 2-1. Sampdoria remains rooted to the foot of the table despite Gaston Ramirez salvaging a 1-1 draw with an injury-time equaliser at home to Lecce.

Serie A: Cristiano Ronaldo hits late Juventus winner as Napoli rage at 'potato-peeling' referees

Juventus fell to their first Serie A defeat of the season on Sunday as Genoa ran out 2-0 winners days after the Turin club's Champions League heroics against Atletico Madrid.

Stefano Sturaro, who joined Genoa on loan from Juventus in January before the deal was made permanent, put the home side in front in the second half before fellow substitute Goran Pandev secured the shock result with 10 minutes remaining.

Cristiano Ronaldo inspired a remarkable European comeback for the Italian champions on Tuesday when he scored a hat-trick to overturn a 2-0 first-leg defeat against Atletico and send his side through to the quarter-finals with a 3-2 aggregate win.

However, the Portuguese was left out of the matchday squad for the trip to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris and Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri was left frustrated as Genoa took points off his side for the second time this season, having drawn 1-1 in Turin in October.

“I expected a different Juventus," Allegri told Italian broadcasters.

"We did not put in a good performance, we made some mistakes and then this goal came out of nowhere.

“Much like the Coppa Italia defeat to Atalanta, we picked the right game to lose, because it’s just before the break for international duty, so we have time to unplug and rest.

“I am actually happy for Stefano, because if anyone had to score against us, I’m glad it was Sturaro. He’s a lovely guy and suffered so much, out of action for practically a year with that tendon injury, so he deserves it.”

Juve had dropped points just three times this season going into the game, with draws against Genoa, Atalanta and Parma, while they were unbeaten overall in the top-flight for the last 31 rounds, since losing 1-0 to Napoli on 22 April 2018.

However, the hosts started the brighter as Christian Kouame forced a good save from former Genoa goalkeeper Mattia Perin before Cesare Prandelli's side were awarded a penalty for handball, only for a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review to overturn the decision.

Juventus thought they had gone in front after the break when Paulo Dybala swept home a finish, but VAR chalked the goal off for an offside in the build-up.

Sturaro then curled a finish into the corner against his parent club just minutes after coming on, before Pandev made sure of the three points with a powerful finish.

Despite the result, Juventus remain 18 points clear of second-placed Napoli at the summit of the table, while Genoa climbed above Sassuolo into 12th place on 33 points.

Juventus fell to their first Serie A defeat of the season on Sunday as Genoa ran out 2-0 winners days after the Turin club's Champions League heroics against Atletico Madrid.

Juventus fell to their first Serie A defeat of the season on Sunday as Genoa ran out 2-0 winners days after the Turin club's Champions League heroics against Atletico Madrid. Stefano Sturaro, who joined Genoa on loan from Juventus in January before the deal was made permanent, put the home side in front in the second half before fellow substitute Goran Pandev secured the shock result with 10 minutes remaining. Cristiano Ronaldo inspired a remarkable European comeback for the Italian champions on Tuesday when he scored a hat-trick to overturn a 2-0 first-leg defeat against Atletico and send his side through to the quarter-finals with a 3-2 aggregate win. However, the Portuguese was left out of the matchday squad for the trip to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris and Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri was left frustrated as Genoa took points off his side for the second time this season, having drawn 1-1 in Turin in October. “I expected a different Juventus," Allegri told Italian broadcasters. "We did not put in a good performance, we made some mistakes and then this goal came out of nowhere. “Much like the Coppa Italia defeat to Atalanta, we picked the right game to lose, because it’s just before the break for international duty, so we have time to unplug and rest. “I am actually happy for Stefano, because if anyone had to score against us, I’m glad it was Sturaro. He’s a lovely guy and suffered so much, out of action for practically a year with that tendon injury, so he deserves it.” Juve had dropped points just three times this season going into the game, with draws against Genoa, Atalanta and Parma, while they were unbeaten overall in the top-flight for the last 31 rounds, since losing 1-0 to Napoli on 22 April 2018. However, the hosts started the brighter as Christian Kouame forced a good save from former Genoa goalkeeper Mattia Perin before Cesare Prandelli's side were awarded a penalty for handball, only for a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review to overturn the decision. Juventus thought they had gone in front after the break when Paulo Dybala swept home a finish, but VAR chalked the goal off for an offside in the build-up. Sturaro then curled a finish into the corner against his parent club just minutes after coming on, before Pandev made sure of the three points with a powerful finish. Despite the result, Juventus remain 18 points clear of second-placed Napoli at the summit of the table, while Genoa climbed above Sassuolo into 12th place on 33 points.

Juventus suffer first league defeat of the season at Genoa

Engineers started the delicate task of taking apart Genoa's Morandi motorway bridge on Friday almost six months after its partial collapse during a storm killed 43 people and injured dozens.

Thousands of tonnes of steel, concrete and asphalt have already been removed from the spectacularly truncated high-rise bridge in the northern Italian port city to make it lighter before the "deconstruction" operation began.

"It's an important day, the first step on a path that we hope will be as short as possible," Prime Minister Giussepe Conte told journalists at the site.

Four powerful strand-jacks positioned on the bridge by an enormous crane began unhooking and slowly lowering a 36-by-18 metre (118-by-59 foot) concrete slab weighing over 900 tonnes.

The jacks are the same as those used to right the Costa Concordia cruise liner off Tuscany in 2013, after it ran aground and capsized with the loss of 32 lives.

The operation to lower the vast slab around 48 metres to the ground is expected to take at least eight hours.

Homage to the victims

The operation will help the city move on from the August disaster, which beyond the human cost also ripped out one of the city's main transport arteries.

Italy's most famous living architect Renzo Piano, a Genoa native who helped design the Pompidou Centre in Paris, has provided the design for the replacement bridge that "will last for 1,000 years".

While the new structure has been designed to look different from the old one, opened in 1967, it will contain a homage to the victims of the accident.

It will feature 43 lamp poles in memory of those killed when a section collapsed during a storm on August 14, sending dozens of vehicles and tonnes of concrete tumbling to the ground.

The new bridge commission, headed by Genoa Mayor Marco Bucci, noted the new design "rests on pillars, respecting the feeling of psychological aversion in the city (to) other types of bridge with suspended or cable-stayed parts".

It will "have elements of a boat because that is something from Genoa," Piano has said, describing a streamlined and luminous white structure.

The new bridge is estimated to cost 202 million euros (US$229 million), making it one of the most expensive in Europe.

It is expected to be open to traffic by April 2020, junior transport minister Edoardo Rizi said on Thursday, with the demolition of the old structure due to take 190 days.

Invisible decay

The old cable-stayed bridge was made from reinforced concrete, with the steel cables linking the bridge's towers also covered in concrete.

One theory investigators are looking into is that the steel within the concrete had decayed, although this would not have been visible.

There have also been allegations of poor maintenance, poor design and questionable building practices.

Explosives will be used to demolish the bridge from around February 20, Genoa's Repubblica newspaper reported.

The eastern side of the bridge, where the structure gave way, still needs to be examined by experts and prosectors.

Autostrade per l'Italia (Aspi) operated the failed bridge and several of its managers could face trial over the collapse.

Ahead of anticipated court proceedings, Aspi is still negotiating compensation payments with bereaved relatives, reportedly for a total of 50 million euros.

For the first time in an Italian public works contract, the construction companies face stiff penalties of up to 202,000 euros a day for any delays.

Civil engineering expert Pierre Corfdir said planning the demolition of a bridge this size (over 1,180 metres) would normally take around three years.

"This is one of the most complex bridge demolitions" because of the built-up environment, said Corfdir, who works at France's Cerema institute.

"There's also time pressure: they have to rebuild a bridge that is of vital importance to the city’s economy."

Engineers started the delicate task of taking apart Genoa's Morandi motorway bridge on Friday almost six months after its partial collapse during a storm killed 43 people and injured dozens.

Engineers started the delicate task of taking apart Genoa's Morandi motorway bridge on Friday almost six months after its partial collapse during a storm killed 43 people and injured dozens. Thousands of tonnes of steel, concrete and asphalt have already been removed from the spectacularly truncated high-rise bridge in the northern Italian port city to make it lighter before the "deconstruction" operation began. "It's an important day, the first step on a path that we hope will be as short as possible," Prime Minister Giussepe Conte told journalists at the site. Four powerful strand-jacks positioned on the bridge by an enormous crane began unhooking and slowly lowering a 36-by-18 metre (118-by-59 foot) concrete slab weighing over 900 tonnes. The jacks are the same as those used to right the Costa Concordia cruise liner off Tuscany in 2013, after it ran aground and capsized with the loss of 32 lives. The operation to lower the vast slab around 48 metres to the ground is expected to take at least eight hours. Homage to the victims The operation will help the city move on from the August disaster, which beyond the human cost also ripped out one of the city's main transport arteries. Italy's most famous living architect Renzo Piano, a Genoa native who helped design the Pompidou Centre in Paris, has provided the design for the replacement bridge that "will last for 1,000 years". While the new structure has been designed to look different from the old one, opened in 1967, it will contain a homage to the victims of the accident. It will feature 43 lamp poles in memory of those killed when a section collapsed during a storm on August 14, sending dozens of vehicles and tonnes of concrete tumbling to the ground. The new bridge commission, headed by Genoa Mayor Marco Bucci, noted the new design "rests on pillars, respecting the feeling of psychological aversion in the city (to) other types of bridge with suspended or cable-stayed parts". It will "have elements of a boat because that is something from Genoa," Piano has said, describing a streamlined and luminous white structure. The new bridge is estimated to cost 202 million euros (US$229 million), making it one of the most expensive in Europe. It is expected to be open to traffic by April 2020, junior transport minister Edoardo Rizi said on Thursday, with the demolition of the old structure due to take 190 days. Invisible decay The old cable-stayed bridge was made from reinforced concrete, with the steel cables linking the bridge's towers also covered in concrete. One theory investigators are looking into is that the steel within the concrete had decayed, although this would not have been visible. There have also been allegations of poor maintenance, poor design and questionable building practices. Explosives will be used to demolish the bridge from around February 20, Genoa's Repubblica newspaper reported. The eastern side of the bridge, where the structure gave way, still needs to be examined by experts and prosectors. Autostrade per l'Italia (Aspi) operated the failed bridge and several of its managers could face trial over the collapse. Ahead of anticipated court proceedings, Aspi is still negotiating compensation payments with bereaved relatives, reportedly for a total of 50 million euros. For the first time in an Italian public works contract, the construction companies face stiff penalties of up to 202,000 euros a day for any delays. Civil engineering expert Pierre Corfdir said planning the demolition of a bridge this size (over 1,180 metres) would normally take around three years. "This is one of the most complex bridge demolitions" because of the built-up environment, said Corfdir, who works at France's Cerema institute. "There's also time pressure: they have to rebuild a bridge that is of vital importance to the city’s economy."

Genoa starts demolishing disaster bridge six months on

The Italian city of Genoa has offered to host the postponed Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors, stressing the role immigrants from the city had in founding the two Buenos Aires clubs.

The second leg of the final was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/riots-break-out-in-argentina-after-boca-juniors-bus-is-attacked-179326">called off twice</a> at the weekend after the bus carrying the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/libertadores-final-postponed-after-boca-bus-attacked-players-hurt-179328">Boca team was attacked</a> by rival fans outside River's Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on Saturday, injuring several players.

The kickoff was initially delayed before the game was postponed from Saturday to Sunday. On Sunday, it was postponed again, hours before kickoff, after Boca said they were not in a fit state to play.

The South American football confederation CONMEBOL is due to meet both clubs on Tuesday to discuss rescheduling and the venue. The first leg at Boca's stadium ended 2-2.

The Genoa city government confirmed in a statement on Monday that it had written to the clubs offering to host the game.

The Libertadores is South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League and it is the first time two teams from the same city had reached the final.

"Deep, in fact, are the bonds that unite the two Argentine football clubs - both founded by Genoese immigrants at the beginning of the twentieth century - with the Ligurian capital," Genoa's government said.

The city's sports director Stefano Anzalone added: "We would be very proud to host important clubs like Boca and River in our city by welcoming them in what, in some ways, is also their first home.

"It would also be a further opportunity to give international visibility in Genoa at this time of difficulty and to renew the profound sense of friendship that historically unites us with those societies."

The city is still recovering from the accident in August when a motorway bridge collapsed, killing 43 people.

Boca are generally more closely associated with the city and are nicknamed the "Xeneizes", the local dialect's word for "Genoese".

River Plate's connections with the city are less well known although some versions of their history say the club adopted red and white as their colours because they are the same as Genoa's flag.

The Italian city of Genoa has offered to host the postponed Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors, stressing the role immigrants from the city had in founding the two Buenos Aires clubs.

The Italian city of Genoa has offered to host the postponed Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors, stressing the role immigrants from the city had in founding the two Buenos Aires clubs. The second leg of the final was called off twice at the weekend after the bus carrying the Boca team was attacked by rival fans outside River's Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on Saturday, injuring several players. The kickoff was initially delayed before the game was postponed from Saturday to Sunday. On Sunday, it was postponed again, hours before kickoff, after Boca said they were not in a fit state to play. The South American football confederation CONMEBOL is due to meet both clubs on Tuesday to discuss rescheduling and the venue. The first leg at Boca's stadium ended 2-2. The Genoa city government confirmed in a statement on Monday that it had written to the clubs offering to host the game. The Libertadores is South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League and it is the first time two teams from the same city had reached the final. "Deep, in fact, are the bonds that unite the two Argentine football clubs - both founded by Genoese immigrants at the beginning of the twentieth century - with the Ligurian capital," Genoa's government said. The city's sports director Stefano Anzalone added: "We would be very proud to host important clubs like Boca and River in our city by welcoming them in what, in some ways, is also their first home. "It would also be a further opportunity to give international visibility in Genoa at this time of difficulty and to renew the profound sense of friendship that historically unites us with those societies." The city is still recovering from the accident in August when a motorway bridge collapsed, killing 43 people. Boca are generally more closely associated with the city and are nicknamed the "Xeneizes", the local dialect's word for "Genoese". River Plate's connections with the city are less well known although some versions of their history say the club adopted red and white as their colours because they are the same as Genoa's flag.

Genoa offers to host postponed Libertadores final

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz and a late Davide Biraschi own goal rescued a 2-1 win for title-chasing Napoli in a rain-hit Serie A game at Genoa.

Ivorian Christian Kouame had shocked Carlo Ancelotti's side by opening the scoring after 20 minutes in a match which was suspended for 13 minutes around the hour mark because of torrential rain on Saturday.

But substitute Ruiz pulled Napoli level immediately after play resumed, with defender Biraschi piling the misery on the hosts by turning into his own net three minutes from time.

Napoli move up into second place, three points behind champions Juventus who travel to AC Milan on Sunday, and three ahead of third-placed Inter Milan who play at Bergamo side Atalanta.

"This success is worth even more than three points, because it was achieved on a difficult pitch made heavy by the rain," said Brazilian midfielder Allan.

"We won and that's what is important. It gives us peace of mind before the (international) break."&nbsp;

Ancelotti's side proved wasteful in the first half with Lorenzo Insigne hitting the post and Poland's Arkadiusz Milik being denied in front of goal.

Dries Mertens started on the bench, with Polish pair Milik and Krzysztof Piatek up front for the visitors.

Insigne rattled the post on 11 minutes with Argentina defender Cristian Romero deflecting away a Zielinski strike.

But Kouame broke the deadlock from a Romulo cross, rising highest to nod in his second goal this season.

Home goalkeeper Andrei Radu punched a dangerous Insigne cross off the head of Jose Callejon, before denying Milik with 10 minutes left of the first half.

Ancelotti's side had already lost in Genoa this season when they fell 3-0 to Sampdoria, and another defeat was looming as the rain came down.

But Ruiz found a way through when Allan crossed to Mertens whose clever backheel in the penalty area set up the Spaniard to beat Radu.

Biraschi worsened Genoa's current crisis amid a scramble in his own goalmouth, as they slipped to a third straight loss after last week's 5-0 thrashing by Inter.

"It hurts to lose to a late own goal," said Genoa coach Ivan Juric.

Gervinho strikes for Parma&nbsp; 
==============================

Earlier, promoted Parma came away with a 2-1 win from Torino to move level on 17 points with their rivals for a Europa League spot, who sit in eighth.

Walter Mazzarri's side are unbeaten since losing to Napoli on September 23.

Former Arsenal winger Gervinho scored his third goal this season after a defensive mix-up from Armando Izzo and Cameroonian Nicolas Nkoulou saw the Ivorian surge forward with a brilliant solo run after nine minutes, with Roberto Inglese adding a 25th-minute second.

Daniele Baselli pulled one back for Torino eight minutes before the break.

Cagliari came from two goals down to grab a point at SPAL.

Andrea Petagna headed in after less than three minutes for SPAL with captain Mirco Antenucci drilling in the second on 71 minutes.

But Cagliari battled back and five minutes later were level as Leonardo Pavoletti headed in a corner and Artur Ionita equalised with a quick turn and shot.&nbsp;

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz and a late Davide Biraschi own goal rescued a 2-1 win for title-chasing Napoli in a rain-hit Serie A game at Genoa. Ivorian Christian Kouame had shocked Carlo Ancelotti's side by opening the scoring after 20 minutes in a match which was suspended for 13 minutes around the hour mark because of torrential rain on Saturday.

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz and a late Davide Biraschi own goal rescued a 2-1 win for title-chasing Napoli in a rain-hit Serie A game at Genoa. Ivorian Christian Kouame had shocked Carlo Ancelotti's side by opening the scoring after 20 minutes in a match which was suspended for 13 minutes around the hour mark because of torrential rain on Saturday. But substitute Ruiz pulled Napoli level immediately after play resumed, with defender Biraschi piling the misery on the hosts by turning into his own net three minutes from time. Napoli move up into second place, three points behind champions Juventus who travel to AC Milan on Sunday, and three ahead of third-placed Inter Milan who play at Bergamo side Atalanta. "This success is worth even more than three points, because it was achieved on a difficult pitch made heavy by the rain," said Brazilian midfielder Allan. "We won and that's what is important. It gives us peace of mind before the (international) break." Ancelotti's side proved wasteful in the first half with Lorenzo Insigne hitting the post and Poland's Arkadiusz Milik being denied in front of goal. Dries Mertens started on the bench, with Polish pair Milik and Krzysztof Piatek up front for the visitors. Insigne rattled the post on 11 minutes with Argentina defender Cristian Romero deflecting away a Zielinski strike. But Kouame broke the deadlock from a Romulo cross, rising highest to nod in his second goal this season. Home goalkeeper Andrei Radu punched a dangerous Insigne cross off the head of Jose Callejon, before denying Milik with 10 minutes left of the first half. Ancelotti's side had already lost in Genoa this season when they fell 3-0 to Sampdoria, and another defeat was looming as the rain came down. But Ruiz found a way through when Allan crossed to Mertens whose clever backheel in the penalty area set up the Spaniard to beat Radu. Biraschi worsened Genoa's current crisis amid a scramble in his own goalmouth, as they slipped to a third straight loss after last week's 5-0 thrashing by Inter. "It hurts to lose to a late own goal," said Genoa coach Ivan Juric. Gervinho strikes for Parma ============================== Earlier, promoted Parma came away with a 2-1 win from Torino to move level on 17 points with their rivals for a Europa League spot, who sit in eighth. Walter Mazzarri's side are unbeaten since losing to Napoli on September 23. Former Arsenal winger Gervinho scored his third goal this season after a defensive mix-up from Armando Izzo and Cameroonian Nicolas Nkoulou saw the Ivorian surge forward with a brilliant solo run after nine minutes, with Roberto Inglese adding a 25th-minute second. Daniele Baselli pulled one back for Torino eight minutes before the break. Cagliari came from two goals down to grab a point at SPAL. Andrea Petagna headed in after less than three minutes for SPAL with captain Mirco Antenucci drilling in the second on 71 minutes. But Cagliari battled back and five minutes later were level as Leonardo Pavoletti headed in a corner and Artur Ionita equalised with a quick turn and shot.

Ruiz and late own goal rescue Napoli in rainy Genoa

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