In a tense Serie C clash last night at the Ciro Vigorito stadium, Benevento faced off against Picerno in the 33rd round of the league, resulting in a frustrating 0-0 draw that extended Benevento's winless streak to eleven games. Coach Gaetano Auteri's team, now sitting in fifth place with 45 points, is looking to break their streak as they attempt to catch Crotone, who currently sits three points ahead in fourth.
As the teams prepared for the match, strict traffic measures were implemented for the event. Starting at 5 PM and lasting until 12:30 AM on March 25, no parking was allowed on Via Delcogliano, situated near the Università Giustino Fortunato, except for extra-urban buses. Additionally, Via Avellino-Via Pacevecchia-Via delle Puglie was temporarily closed to facilitate the passage of Picerno fans. Public transport arrangements were modified, with passenger pick-up and drop-off continuing normally on Via Mustilli.
The starting lineup for Benevento featured Manfredini in goal; Oukhadda, Berra, Tosca, and Simonetti in defense; Talia and Viviani in midfield; and Starita, Acampora, and Lanini supporting the forward, Manconi. On the other hand, Picerno lined up with Merelli in goal and a similar 4-2-3-1 formation, including key players like Salvo, Pagliai, and Maiorino.
Throughout the match, both teams struggled to find a breakthrough. In the first half, Benevento made several attempts to score but were thwarted by Picerno's solid defense. The first notable scoring chance came in the fifth minute when Petito attempted a long-range shot, which missed the target. Benevento responded with a shot from Lanini, which was deflected for a corner.
The first half continued as both teams sought control, with Benevento enjoying a greater share of possession. However, in the 41st minute, Berra found the net only for the goal to be disallowed for offside, much to the frustration of the local supporters. The tension among the players grew as the first half concluded with a score of 0-0.
In the second half, the intensity remained high. Benevento looked more dangerous as they mounted several attacks. Simonetti made a skillful steal and took a shot at goal, but it drifted just wide of the posts. The visitors, however, weren't without threats, and in the 56th minute, Manfredini made a crucial save from Petito's shot inside the box.
As the match wore on, both coaches made tactical substitutions in hopes of capitalizing on the shifting dynamics of the game. Auteri's changes included bringing on Lamesta for Lanini, while Picerno's Tomei replaced Maiorino with Bernardotto at half-time. In one pivotal moment, the game turned when Papini of Picerno received a red card in stoppage time after a foul on Pinato, leaving his team with ten men. However, Benevento couldn't convert their numerical advantage into a goal.
The final minutes showcased the home side's frustration as they failed to capitalize on the chances created. Merelli continued to stand firm, denying efforts from Lamesta and Manconi, while the game ended without a goal.
After the final whistle, the statistics revealed the struggle both sides faced in finishing clear opportunities. Benevento's winless streak now stands at eleven matches, and they sit at +2 points above Catania and Potenza, both of whom are close competitors in the table.
Benevento's next chance to secure that long-awaited win will come on March 30, when they face Avellino in a highly anticipated derby match, while the Picerno will look to maintain their impressive unbeaten run as they remain in eighth place with 41 points.
The fans will hope for a turnaround from their team as anticipation builds for the upcoming matches.
