Italy U21 international of Nigerian descent Jeff Ekhator was on target as Genoa came from behind to secure a victory over Pisa SC on matchday 33 of the Serie A on Sunday at the Cetilar Arena.

Pisa named Nigeria international midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro in their starting line-up, with the Inter Milan loanee featuring for 61 minutes before being replaced by Juan Cuadrado.

The hosts took the lead in the 19th minute when Simone Canestrelli rose highest to head home a corner delivered by Samuele Angori.

Genoa restored parity four minutes before the interval through Ekhator, who unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike into the roof of the net from just inside the area.

Ten minutes after the restart, Lorenzo Colombo kept his composure from the penalty spot to score what proved to be the game-winning goal.

Ekhator's other goals this season have come against two of Serie A's traditional heavyweights, Napoli and AS Roma. 

The promising striker, who attracted interest from Benfica and Crystal Palace FC during the winter transfer window, also found the net in a Coppa Italia fixture against Empoli FC last September.

With five matches remaining this season, Genoa sit 13th in the standings on 39 points, while Pisa remain rooted to the bottom with 18 points.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: genoacfc.it