Campobasso and Pescara faced off on December 14, 2024, at the Avicor Molinari Stadium for what promised to be a thrilling encounter. The match was particularly significant as it represented the first half of the season for both teams competing in Serie C. The match ended with both teams sharing the spoils, drawing 2-2.
The game kicked off at 19:45, and just five minutes later, Campobasso struck first, taking the lead courtesy of Riccardo Forte. Forte seized upon defensive errors from Pescara, maneuvering around the defenders and capitalizing on the moment to find the back of the net. This early goal set the tone, putting immediate pressure on the visitors, who would have to respond if they wanted to maintain their position at the top of the league.
Despite the early setback, Pescara slowly gained traction. Following Campobasso’s lead, the visitors ventured forward, pushing for opportunities to level the score. The first half saw threats from both sides, but Campobasso held on to the advantage, leading 1-0 at the break.
The second half saw Pescara emerge with renewed vigor, making tactical adjustments. Silvio Baldini, Pescara’s coach, substituted Tonin for Merola at the dawn of the second half, and the change proved to be pivotal. By the 59th minute, Pescara equalized as Merola scored the first of his goals from inside the box following perfect positioning and setup by Squizzato. The crowd erupted as the parity was restored.
Just eight minutes later, the game turned again when Merola found the net again, this time with style, scoring with his heel after another impressive play from Dagasso, who had dribbled past two defenders to deliver the pass. Pescara, leading 2-1, appeared set to snatch all three points away from home.
But as the match reached its climax, drama unfolded. With only minutes left to play, and Campobasso down to ten men after the expulsion of Benassai for violent conduct, the home side mounted one last charge. The tension mounted as the match entered stoppage time; Campobasso was determined not to leave empty-handed.
Finally, at the very last moment, Campobasso's Di Nardo shot from outside the box. The ball soared through the air, grazing the fingertips of goalkeeper Plizzari, before nestling just beneath the crossbar for the equalizer. The stadium erupted as the unexpected goal sealed the draw at 2-2.
Both teams left the pitch with mixed emotions. While Pescara maintained their top spot on the table with 40 points, they were left frustrated at conceding late. Campobasso, on the other hand, salvaged a valuable point after struggling previously, providing hope for improvement moving forward.
This match illustrated the competitive nature of Serie C, with surprises lurking at every turn and the fight for points intensifying as the season progresses. Fans will certainly look forward to seeing how both teams build upon this match as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures.