Coppa Italia 22/23: Venezia - Ascoli postmatch

With Venezia’s first team ravaged by Covid in recent days, a total of eight players under the age of 21 would make their club debuts in Sunday afternoon’s cup tie against Ascoli, including 18-year-old Hilmir Mikaelsson — who would strike twice in the 88th and 89th minutes to level the match at 2-2. But the euphoric moment would be short-lived, as the visitors grabbed a winner through an own goal in stoppage time, bringing Venezia’s 2022/23 Coppa Italia campaign to an end in the Round of 32.

Venezia manager Ivan Javorčić and goalkeeper Jesse Joronen spoke to the press after the match.

Ivan Javorčić:

“We played a good game, I really have to congratulate the boys for not giving up despite the circumstances, giving an extremely positive signal. That's the beauty of football: we entertained the fans, and the boys put in extreme dedication.

Certainly this is a game to be put in context; it is difficult to consider it a test ahead of next week, because it is impossible to predict how the situation will evolve. There were some very encouraging performances, despite the need to 'improvise' given the circumstances.”

Jesse Joronen:

“We are all sorry because we always prepare to win a game. I am very proud of our Primavera players, some of whom made their professional debut today. The more experienced of us tried to encourage them because they are tremendously talented youngsters.

I always try to give my best for my team, I'm glad my contribution helped keep the game alive.”