Vieira appreciates Genoa ‘solidity’ after 0-0 away to Milan | OneFootball

Patrick Vieira admits Genoa ‘could’ve done better’ when attacking, but the 0-0 draw away to Milan confirms their ‘solidity’ in defence.

The coach remains unbeaten since taking over from Alberto Gilardino last month, notching up one victory and three draws.

His men held out well at San Siro against a Milan side who were under pressure to prove a point, but rarely troubled Nicola Leali, the best chance coming off the crossbar from Alvaro Morata.

“Coming to San Siro is always difficult, but I think we had a good performance this evening,” Vieira told DAZN.

“We could’ve done better when attacking, but the important thing was to defend together and we did that. We could’ve created more, but it was tough against a strong side.

“There were some difficult moments and I saw great unity in the squad. They all sacrificed themselves for the good of the team, I am very glad we played like this and took home a point.”

Vieira appreciates Genoa defending

epa11779906 CFC Genoa’s players interact after the Italian Serie A soccer match between AC Milan and CFC Genoa, in Milan, Italy, 15 December 2024. EPA-EFE/ROBERTO BREGANI

It has been pointed out that since Vieira took over, Genoa have a better away record than at home, despite regularly having big crowds at Marassi.

“You can tell we play with greater calm away from home, perhaps there is less pressure,” confessed the coach.

“Next we have a big game at home with Napoli, so we must play with character, the way we did in the second half tonight. We want to create more, but are close to winning at home too.”

This was the third consecutive clean sheet for Genoa in four games under Vieira.

In his press conference, Vieira was asked why he had left Mario Balotelli on the bench, despite the relative lack of Genoa scoring opportunities.

“Stability and balance are very important. I thought that we did not need another striker. We have a clear idea on how to play and the team is doing well.”

It was fortuitous that Vieira was here this evening, as Milan were celebrating the 125th anniversary of the club’s foundation.

The former midfielder wore the Rossoneri jersey in the 1995-96 season, even though he only made five appearances for the club.