Genoa's Pandev scores from 40 metres, later sent off in 2-2 draw

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:18 am

Genoa's veteran striker Goran Pandev scored a remarkable goal from near the halfway line but turned villain in the second half when he was booked twice in four minutes and sent off in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Lecce on Sunday.

Genoa, who led 2-0 at halftime, finished with nine men in the Serie A relegation battle while Lecce drew 2-2 for the third successive home game.

Pandev struck in the 31st minute when Lecce goalkeeper Gabriel sent a clearance straight to him and the North Macedonian controlled the ball on his chest and immediately sent a long, looping shot into the net from around 40 metres.

The 36-year-old also won the penalty which Domenico Criscito converted in first-half stoppage time to make it 2-0.

Genoa players
Genoa players
Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images

Genoa nearly had a third in the 57th minute when Kevin Agudelo had only Gabriel to beat but the Brazilian stuck out his foot to save the shot in what proved the game's turning-point.

Filippo Falco pulled one back with a curling shot on the hour, then Genoa had Agudelo sent off and Andrea Tabanelli equalised in the 70th minute. Pandev was booked for diving in the 73rd minute and then received his marching orders for a clumsy tackle shortly afterwards.

Genoa are 18th in the 20-team table with 11 points, four fewer than promoted Lecce. (Writing by Brian Homewood Editing by Christian Radnedge)