The season began with a tie for both teams, although the Grifone were happy after holding the defending champions Inter 2-2. Since then, David Ankeye, Brooke Norton-Cuffy, and Alan Matturro had not been seen; however, Andrea Pinamonti had arrived, and Caleb Ekuban had recovered for the bench. Alessio Cragno, Jose Machin, Patrick Ciurria, and Stefano Sensi were not available for the hosts. After a brilliant ball from Daniel Maldini nutmegged Milan Badelj, the Genoa defense scrambled it clear for a corner.

Just before halftime, Mattia Bani of Genoa was injured in a muscle injury, but Junior Messias missed a spectacular shot and Maldini's effort was thwarted. There was mayhem in the first half stoppages as Monza's goal was originally disallowed for an offside by Andrea Petagna during the build-up. This was significant since his header was parried, allowing Daniel Maldini to tip in the rebound.