# Monza defeats Sassuolo 2-1 for first Serie A victory > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/monza-victory-over-sassuolo-in-serie-a > Updated: 2026-09-18T17:59:20.000Z. Sources: 154. Developments: 2. AC Monza secured its first Serie A victory of the 2026/2027 season by defeating Sassuolo 2-1 at the U-Power Stadium. Gustavo Varela led the performance for Monza, scoring both goals in the second half. Varela opened the scoring in the 51st minute with a header following a corner kick from Samuele Birindelli. He doubled the lead in the 63rd minute by converting a penalty after Sebastiano Esposito fouled Dany Mota. To stabilize the backline, Monza manager Ivan Juric implemented a defensive change by starting goalkeeper Noel Törnqvist in his debut start. Juric later praised the team's determination and the performance of Törnqvist, who made several crucial saves. Sassuolo, coached by Alberto Aquilani, attempted a late comeback. Vasilije Adžić brought the score to 2-1 in the 88th minute via a free kick. While earlier reports described the goal as a skillful free kick, subsequent accounts noted it was a penalty. Sassuolo continued to press during stoppage time, including a close call from Kieron Bowie, but Monza held on through the final minutes. Despite maintaining 64 percent possession, Sassuolo was unable to capitalize on their opportunities before the match concluded. Following the game, Aquilani noted that his team “lacked the decisive edge in the second half and suffered from fatal errors during key moments.” The win provides momentum for Juric, moving the club to four points and the 14th position in the standings. Sassuolo remains in 9th place with seven points after five matches. Varela’s performance continues a prolific start to the season, bringing his total to six goals in five appearances. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-18: AC Monza defeats US Sassuolo 2-1 for first Serie A win AC Monza earned its first Serie A victory of the season, defeating US Sassuolo 2-1 thanks to a brace from Gustavo Varela. 134 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/monza-defeats-sassuolo-2-1-for-first-league-victory ### 2026-09-16: Monza defeats Sassuolo 2-1 to secure first Serie A win Monza earned their first Serie A win of the season, defeating Sassuolo 2-1 behind a brace from Gustavo Varela. 26 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/monza-sports-center-hosts-aiac-lombardia-training-event --- Cite as: Monza defeats Sassuolo 2-1 for first Serie A victory. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/monza-victory-over-sassuolo-in-serie-a