LECCO – A dramatic evening unfolded at the Rigamonti-Ceppi stadium as Lecco pulled off a stunning comeback against Pro Patria, winning 2-1 after trailing for most of the match. With both teams fighting to escape the relegation zone, this match had significant weight.
The home team struggled early on against Pro Patria, who asserted themselves quickly. The visitors took the lead when Beretta scored at the 14th minute, skillfully evading the Lecco defense to net his diagonal shot past the goalkeeper. For the next twenty minutes, it appeared Pro Patria would control the game and secure their position; their layered defense stifled any efforts from Lecco.
Lecco's players were visibly frustrated, unable to coordinate effective attacks or capitalize on openings. Their best chance came at the 22nd minute when Kritta hit the post with a powerful strike, which was the closest they got to equalizing during the first half. Pro Patria’s defense held firm, with their goalkeeper Rovida proving sharp against pressing attempts from Lecco, and the half closed with Pro Patria leading 1-0.
After halftime, Lecco coach Federico Valente made significant tactical changes, hoping to breathe new life and resilience back to his squad. Immediately he brought on Sene and Galeandro, two substitutes meant to strengthen the attack. The second half was tense, with Pro Patria focused on maintaining their slim lead. They well understood the high stakes of the match and exhibited solid defensive strategies to frustrate Lecco's advances.
Despite Lecco’s reports of danger throughout the second period, including missed opportunities and near chances, time was quickly running out. Then, as the match slipped deep past normal time, hope flickered when Sipos, who had been brought on earlier, found the back of the net at the 92nd minute. From the chaos of the area, he deflected Kritta’s low cross to make it 1-1.
The atmosphere exploded at Rigamonti-Ceppi, the crowd buzzing with renewed energy. But the drama didn’t stop there, as Lecco made sure to seize momentum. Almost immediately after the equalizer, the excitement mounted - three minutes later, they struck again. Zanellato received the ball after some strategic play, turned, and scored to complete the incredible comeback with just seconds left on the clock.
"Beffa atroce. E dolorosissima. La Pro Patria passa in vantaggio... ma subisce due gol nel recupero," said one reporter, capturing the essence of the Pro Patria’s heart-wrenching defeat. The frustration of Pro Patria’s timeout echoed among their supporters when the final whistle blew, sealing the victory for Lecco.
This heartbreaking end for Pro Patria meant they continue to tumble dangerously close to the relegation zone, reflecting on their inability to maintain leads during such high-stakes matches. Post-match analysis indicated signals of systemic issues within the team, which if left unchecked, could have dire consequences for their season. The dramatic twist not only altered their standings but sparked discussions about their approach moving forward.
Reflecting on the match, one commentator pointed out: "Roba da non credere. Non tutto, ma tanto. Anzi, tantissimo," emphasizing how unexpected and pivotal this victory was. Lecco's revival could be the turning point they desperately needed as they look to climb out of the relegation battle.
The victory brought Lecco to 32 points, as they temporarily stepped out of the relegation zone, leaving Pro Patria on the brink of disaster. With only nine matches still to play this season, every game will be pivotal for both teams as they seek salvation. The next match for Pro Patria will be against Caldiero on March 1st, with pressure mounting to avoid falling even lower.