In a thrilling encounter on May 9, 2025, Carrarese faced off against Mantova in the 38th matchday of the Serie B championship. Despite suffering a 2-1 defeat, Carrarese managed to secure their place in Serie B for the 2025-26 season with one match to spare, a remarkable achievement considering the stakes involved. The match took place at the sold-out "Danilo Martelli" stadium, where fans were treated to an electric atmosphere, bolstered by Mantova's decision to price tickets at just 5 euros, drawing in a large crowd. Meanwhile, the 947 tickets allocated for Carrarese supporters sold out rapidly, showcasing the passion of their traveling fans.
The game was intensely contested, with both teams displaying a mix of skill and determination. Carrarese fell behind just before halftime when former player Mancuso scored for Mantova, marking his second goal against them this season. However, the visitors rallied after the break, equalizing with a swift strike from Finotto, who was assisted by Cicconi. Just when it seemed Carrarese might secure a point, Debenedetti struck for Mantova, sealing the game at 2-1 in a dramatic finish.
This was only the second meeting between the two clubs in Serie B, the first being in the 1947-48 season. Historically, Mantova has had the upper hand in their encounters, boasting four wins, two draws, and no losses against Carrarese in their previous six matches in Lombardy.
Throughout the season, Mantova had an impressive home record, with seven wins, six draws, and four losses in their 17 home games. In contrast, Carrarese struggled on the road, managing only one win against Frosinone, alongside six draws and ten losses in their away fixtures.
Carrarese's coach, Calabro, faced challenges heading into the match, as he was without starting goalkeeper Bleve due to injury and his backup Fiorillo due to suspension. He opted to field third-choice keeper Ravaglia, who had a busy night. The team set up in a 3-4-3 formation, with Illanes, Guarino, and Imperiale in defense, Bouah and Cicconi on the flanks, and a front line featuring Shpendi, Milanese, and Finotto.
On the other side, Mantova's coach Possanzini had to navigate the absence of suspended player Radaelli and injured Redolfi. He deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a defensive line of Maggioni, Brignani, Cella, and Bani, and Trimboli and Burrai in midfield supporting the attacking trio of Galuppini, Mancuso, and Fiori behind striker Mensah.
Referee Mr. Monaldi from Macerata officiated the match, which was marked by a high level of tension and a series of tactical battles. Carrarese looked to strike early, creating chances through quick counter-attacks, but their efforts were thwarted by Mantova's resilient defense, highlighted by a disallowed goal from Galuppini in the 24th minute due to an offside ruling after VAR review.
As the match progressed, Mantova began to assert themselves more, with Galuppini coming close to scoring again in the 28th minute, only to see his effort narrowly miss the target. Carrarese's strategy relied on maintaining possession and utilizing width to stretch the Mantova defense, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half.
With the first half winding down, Mancuso's goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy, giving Mantova a crucial lead. The goal came after he received a pass from Mensah and executed a precise shot that grazed the post before finding the back of the net. As the whistle blew for halftime, the score stood at 1-0, leaving Carrarese with much to do in the second half.
Following the break, Calabro made two substitutions, bringing on Zuelli and Cherubini for Schiavi and Milanese. The tactical shift paid off immediately as Carrarese equalized just two minutes into the second half. Cicconi's assist found Finotto, who made no mistake in slotting the ball past Mantova's goalkeeper Festa, marking his sixth goal of the season.
The momentum shifted briefly toward Carrarese, but Mantova quickly regrouped and pressed forward, looking to reclaim the lead. In the 55th minute, they made their first substitution, introducing Aramu for Fiori, and continued to apply pressure on Carrarese's defense.
As the clock ticked down, both teams exchanged chances, with yellow cards issued to players on both sides as tensions mounted. However, it was Debenedetti who would ultimately decide the match. In the 83rd minute, he capitalized on a defensive lapse, redirecting a poorly aimed shot from Bragantini into the net, restoring Mantova's lead at 2-1.
Despite the late setback, Carrarese's players showed commendable spirit, heading over to celebrate with their traveling supporters after the final whistle. Although they left the pitch defeated, the team had secured their safety in Serie B, finishing the day with 44 points—five clear of the relegation zone occupied by Salernitana and Cittadella.
Looking ahead, Carrarese's next challenge will be against Palermo on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 20:30 at the "Renzo Barbera" stadium. This match will serve as a chance for the team to conclude their season on a positive note before turning their focus to the upcoming campaign.
As the Serie B season approaches its conclusion, the drama continues to unfold, with teams fighting for survival and others eyeing promotion. The landscape of Italian football remains as thrilling as ever, and fans are left eagerly anticipating what the final matchday will bring.
