With the new year underway, the US Città di Fasano is set to kick off the 2025 season against Fidelis Andria at the "Degli Ulivi" stadium, this Sunday, January 5, at 15:30. This match marks the first game of the second half of the Serie D-Girone H, following what was last year’s impressive finish for the Fasano team, who secured a solid 2-0 victory over Nardò. Despite having drawn 1-1 when the two teams met earlier this season, the stakes are higher this time around as the teams aim to leverage this match to secure valuable points.
Fidelis Andria, currently sharing the top of the league table with Nocerina and Casarano, has undergone changes recently with the replacement of their former coach Ciro Danucci. New coach Giuseppe Scaringella has been working hard to narrow the gap at the top, and his team has certainly shown improvement. Scaringella, acknowledging the pressure of maintaining the top spot, stated, “We fought to be here, and it’s nice to be first, but now we start anew. Defending this position will be tough.”
Fasano significantly bolstered their squad during the financial off-season, with players eager to showcase their talents. Massimo Agovino, the Fasano coach, is particularly aware of the formidable task at hand. “This is one of the strongest teams,” Agovino remarked, “but we know we have little to lose and want to play with freedom.” He emphasized the need for his side to present challenges for their opponents, indicating they aim not to ease the pressure on Fidelis Andria.
Fasano's urgency is underlined by some of the top performers who can markedly change the game's outcome. The return of Agustin Marsico, who had previously spent time on loan at the Trapani, raises eyebrows, especially as he looks to make his mark against his former side. Though he had not entirely found success at Andria, this match gives him the opportunity to turn the tide.
Despite their injuries, with captain Kragl out due to suspension, Fidelis Andria remains well-prepared and resilient. The pressure is palpable as fans anticipate what this head-to-head could mean for their team’s standings. “The match against Fasano will certainly not be easy, and we have to be at our best,” Scaringella noted, pointing to the quality and physicality of the Fasano players.
Preparations for the match also encompass logistical and security measures. Local public establishments near the stadium have been reminded of Ordinance No. 451, prohibiting the sale and serving of beverages in glass or plastic containers, thereby maintaining public order and safety. The city officials have ordered the temporary closure of certain public areas and venues as part of heightened security protocols.
The fixture will see up to 200 away supporters from Fasano being allowed attendance, controlled by police arrangements due to identified security concerns reflected under the event's designated high-risk level. Citizens are reminded of the strict traffic and parking constraints, which include road closures starting from 13:30 leading up to the match, emphasizing the importance of logistics on match day.
Another intriguing aspect of this fixture is the officiants; it will be refereed by Davide Cerea from Bergamo, alongside assistants Kevin Turra and Edoardo Monelli. The importance of having competent officiants for big matches cannot be understated, as they play pivotal roles in ensuring fair play.
The match itself promises to be filled with intensity and competition, as both teams are aware of the significance points hold, especially with the title race becoming more competitive. Cheers from both sets of supporters will surely echo throughout the stadium, as two ambitious squads clash once again.
Tickets for the match can be purchased through Vivaticket, reaffirming the widespread interest and support for local teams as fans gear up for the season’s highly anticipated matchup. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early to be part of what promises to be a riveting encounter, full of stakes and showcasing regional talent.
Looking back at the first half of the season, it’s evident both teams have contributed to making Serie D-Girone H competitive. The upcoming match between Fidelis Andria and US Città di Fasano isn't just any game; it symbolizes the fight for supremacy and the drive to achieve greater heights as the season progresses.