Edoardo Bove scores first goal for Watford after 471-day absence A month after returning to action following a prolonged health battle, Edoardo Bove netted his first goal for Watford in a 3-1 Championship victory over Wrexham. The 24-year-old midfielder, who had been sidelined since collapsing during a Fiorentina match in December 2024, celebrated the milestone with a heartfelt moment on the pitch, reflecting on his journey back to football. Bove’s goal came in stoppage time as Watford secured a crucial win. The match, played on March 17, 2026, saw the former Roma and Fiorentina player make an impact in the final stages. His goal followed a sequence of events that began with a run by Mamadou Doumbia down the right flank. The ball was delivered into the penalty area, where Marc Ola struck the crossbar before the ball fell to Bove, who finished with a clinical touch. The goal marked a significant milestone in his recovery and career resurgence. The victory was accompanied by a poignant moment in the stands, where a banner read, “Even though you left Roma, you’re not alone.” After scoring, Bove ran to the fans, embracing them in a display of gratitude for their support. The goal symbolized not just a personal triumph but also a renewed connection with the supporters who had followed his journey. Bove’s return to football was made possible after a 471-day absence, during which he underwent treatment for a malignant ventricular arrhythmia known as torsades de pointes. The condition, which led to a subcutaneous defibrillator being fitted, prevented him from continuing his career in Italy. As a result, he moved to England, joining Watford in the Championship. His goal on March 17, 2026, underscored his determination to reclaim his place in the sport.#fiorentina #watford #edoardo_bove #mamadou_doumbia #marc_ola
Watford Edge Past Wrexham in Championship Clash Watford secured a crucial victory over Wrexham in their EFL Championship clash, boosting their play-off prospects and handing the visitors their first away defeat of 2026. The Hornets dominated proceedings, with Marc Bola opening the scoring after a bright start, followed by a second goal from Edo Kayembe before halftime. Edoardo Bove sealed the win in added time, ensuring Watford closed the gap on sixth-place Wrexham to five points. The match began with Watford asserting their control, as Bola’s strike in the first half showcased their attacking intent. The 23-year-old forward, who joined from Roma in the recent transfer window, found the net with a well-placed shot that caught Wrexham’s defense off guard. The Hornets doubled their lead shortly after, with Kayembe capitalizing on a counterattack that left Arthur Okonkwo stranded. The second-half saw Wrexham push for an equalizer, with Max Cleworth’s header reducing the deficit, but Watford’s resilience proved decisive. Bove’s late goal, following a long throw from Zak Vyner, proved to be the final blow. The victory highlighted Watford’s ability to capitalize on opportunities, particularly in the final third. Despite Wrexham’s efforts to mount a comeback, the Hornets’ defensive organization and clinical finishing kept them ahead. The result also marked a significant moment for Wrexham, as they suffered their first away defeat of the season under manager Phil Parkinson. The match was punctuated by key substitutions, with Watford making several changes to maintain their momentum. Mattie Pollock, who had been sidelined by injury, returned to bolster their defense, while Kevin Keben and Nampalys Mendy added fresh energy.#wrexham #watford #marc_bola #edo_kayembe #edoardo_bove
