On April 17, 2025, a jubilant atmosphere enveloped the "Giuseppe Capozza" stadium as Casarano Calcio celebrated a monumental achievement: their return to Serie C after nearly 30 years in the lower divisions. The team delivered a stunning performance, defeating Fidelis Andria 4-0, with goals from Cajazzo, Javi Morales, Perez, and Cerutti sealing the deal in front of a packed crowd despite the challenging weather conditions.
The match, played on Giovedì Santo, marked a significant moment for the Casarano community, who have long yearned for a return to professional football. The victory not only secured their promotion but also highlighted the team's dominance throughout the season, finishing with an impressive record of 21 wins, 10 draws, and just one loss. With 69 goals scored and only 25 conceded, Casarano finished the season with a seven-point lead over their nearest rivals, Nocerina, who managed a win of their own against Virtus Francavilla.
Casarano's journey back to Serie C has been a remarkable one, especially considering their last appearance in the league was during the 1998/99 season. The team faced relegation after losing a playout against Chieti, but under the guidance of coach Vito Di Bari, who took over from Giuseppe Laterza during the winter, the team found its rhythm and never looked back.
The match against Fidelis Andria was a testament to Casarano's capabilities. They started strong, with Cajazzo opening the scoring just before halftime in the 41st minute, converting a well-placed pass from Ferrara. The second half saw Morales double the lead in the 57th minute, capitalizing on a loose ball in the box. Perez added a third with a powerful header from a free kick in the 85th minute, and Cerutti capped off the scoring just before the final whistle, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Fulvio Navone, the club's Director General, expressed his pride in the team's performance and the support from the fans. "This is a dream come true for all of us. The community has been behind us every step of the way, and today we celebrate together," he said. The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with fans waving scarves and flags, embodying the passion that has fueled the club's resurgence.
As the celebration continued, the team's president, Antonio Filograna Sergio, reflected on the journey back to professionalism. "It has been a long road, but we always believed in our potential. This achievement is just the beginning, and we look forward to building on this success in Serie C," he stated, highlighting the optimism surrounding the club's future.
Looking ahead, Casarano will face Gravina on April 27, 2025, before concluding their season against Ischia on May 4, 2025. Both matches present opportunities for the team to solidify their position and celebrate their promotion further.
The historical significance of this moment cannot be overstated. Many fans recall the club's earlier glory days when they competed fiercely in the early 90s, nearly reaching Serie B. Names like Nunziata, Leoni, and Dondoni still resonate with long-time supporters, and the current squad has reignited that passion. The victory over Fidelis Andria is not just a win; it's a statement that Casarano is back where they belong.
As the dust settles on this historic day, the excitement in Casarano is palpable. The streets are filled with celebrations, and the community is united in pride for their team. The long-awaited return to Serie C is not merely a sporting achievement; it symbolizes hope, resilience, and the power of community support.
In conclusion, Casarano Calcio has proven that hard work and determination can lead to success, and as they prepare to embark on their next chapter in Serie C, the fans can be assured that their team will continue to fight for glory. The future looks bright for Casarano, and the entire city is ready to embrace this new era of football.
