Udinese Edge Out Monza 3-1 in Serie A Clash

First-Half Flashpoints Set the Tone

Udinese seized control of the match early through sharp capitalizing on Monza’s errors. In the 32nd minute, according to ANSA, an errant build-up pass from Mout allowed Hassane Kamara to steer a ball toward Jakub Piotrowski, who slotted past goalkeeper Thiam from close range to open the scoring.

Monza responded in the 37th minute when Andrea Colpani leveled the score. Mangas delivered a precise pass that picked out the former Fiorentina midfielder alone inside the area, and Colpani finished calmly past Okoye.

The parity proved short-lived. In the 45th minute, Kamara struck again from long range following a corner kick. Thiam got a hand to the effort, but the awkward deflection failed to keep the ball out, restoring Udinese’s lead. Just moments later, deep into first-half stoppage time at the 45’+3 mark, Jurgen Ekkelenkamp added a third. Birindelli cleared a corner from Unai Gomez only as far as the Dutch midfielder, who unleashed a powerful strike under the crossbar to give the visitors a 3-1 halftime cushion.

Monza’s Second-Half Push Falls Short

Juric’s squad attempted a comeback after the interval. In the 63rd minute, Gustavo Varela pulled a goal back for the hosts. Colpani initiated the sequence by releasing Akinsanmiro, whose lofted cross found Varela in a legal position to head past Okoye, cutting the deficit to 3-2.

Despite sustained pressure and flashes of attacking intent, Monza could not find an equalizer before the final whistle, sealing the 3-1 scoreline in favor of the Friulians.

Managerial Perspectives and Squad Challenges

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Monza manager Ivan Juric likened his squad to an unbuilt vehicle. “I’m not a fan of motors, but we are a machine that is entirely to be built,” Juric remarked to ANSA, noting that the club remains a bit behind schedule amidst a busy summer market. Juric also acknowledged the potential of recent arrival Maye, though emphasizing that the young player needs time to mature.

On the opposing bench, Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic stressed continuity and mental strength. Runjaic addressed his side’s fitness concerns prior to kickoff, noting the absence of midfielder Zaniolo—whom he admitted had played perhaps too many minutes—and a muscular issue sidelining Palma for a couple of weeks. Meanwhile, newcomer Unai Gomez earned a start to help anchor the midfield.

What Comes Next

Both clubs return to league preparations as the final days of the transfer window dictate the immediate shape of their rosters. Monza continues its campaign aimed at securing stability in Serie A, while Udinese looks to carry its early-season momentum forward.