Soccer: Genoa draw with Cagliari, prays for Empoli win to keep hopes alive

A late Domenico Criscito penalty earned Genoa a 1-1 Serie A draw at home to Cagliari on Saturday but Cesare Prandelli's side remains at risk of relegation. Genoa will finish the weekend in the drop zone if Empoli beat Torino at home on Sunday after their winless run was extended to nine games.

Cagliari striker Leonardo Pavoletti showed great strength to control a long ball on his chest, turn his marker and power in a half-volley five minutes before halftime. But the home side was awarded a penalty for handball following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review in the final minute of regulation time, which captain Criscito dispatched.

Genoa substitute Giuseppe Pezzella was then sent off deep into stoppage time for a rash challenge on Nicolo Barella. Prandelli's side is in 17th place on 37 points but Empoli is two points behind with a game in hand.

Cagliari is now mathematically safe from relegation in 12th place on 41 points. Genoa travels to Fiorentina for their final game of the league season next Sunday, while Empoli will be a way to Inter Milan.

Earlier, Udinese's survival hopes were boosted with a 3-2 win over SPAL, a victory that moved Igor Tudor's side on to 40 points and ensures that they will remain in Serie A next season if Empoli fails to beat Torino.