In a thrilling encounter at the Alberto Braglia Stadium, Modena faced off against Catanzaro in a crucial Serie B clash on March 29, 2025. With both teams vying for different objectives in the league, the atmosphere was electric as fans gathered to witness this pivotal matchup.
As the match kicked off, Modena, sitting in tenth place with 35 points, was looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Juve Stabia in their last outing. Coach Paolo Mandelli’s side aimed to capitalize on their home advantage, while Catanzaro, positioned fifth with 46 points, sought to maintain their playoff aspirations after a commanding 4-0 victory over Cosenza.
The starting lineups revealed a tactical battle as both teams opted for a 3-5-2 formation. Modena featured Gagno in goal, supported by a back three of Di Pardo, Zaro, and Cauz. The midfield boasted Magnino, Palumbo, Gerli, Santoro, and Cotali, with Pedro Mendes and Caso leading the attack. Meanwhile, Catanzaro’s Pigliacelli was shielded by Brighenti, Scognamillo, and Bonini in defense, while Situm, Pompetti, Petriccione, Ilie, and Quagliata formed a robust midfield, supporting forwards Iemmello and Buso.
Referee Daniele Perenzoni officiated the match, with VAR assistance from Niccolò Baroni, ensuring a fair contest. The first half saw Modena take charge early on, creating several opportunities. In the 2nd minute, Pedro Mendes delivered a promising cross that resulted in a corner. However, it was not until the 33rd minute that the deadlock was broken. A lapse in concentration from Catanzaro’s defense allowed Luca Magnino to score, giving Modena a crucial 1-0 lead.
Magnino's goal came after a swift counter-attack initiated by Palumbo, who found Di Pardo on the right. Despite an interception attempt by Scognamillo, the ball fell to Magnino, who unleashed a powerful right-footed shot that left Pigliacelli no chance. The home crowd erupted in celebration as Modena took the lead.
As the first half progressed, Catanzaro struggled to find their rhythm. They had a goal disallowed in the 31st minute when Buso found the net, but the referee ruled it out for offside after Iemmello's involvement. The frustration grew for Catanzaro as they failed to convert their opportunities, with Modena's defense holding firm.
Despite Modena's lead, the visitors began to apply pressure towards the end of the first half. However, they were unable to break through, and the half concluded with Modena leading 1-0. The teams headed into the locker rooms with Modena in a favorable position, buoyed by their home support.
As the second half commenced, Catanzaro made tactical changes, bringing on Tommaso Cassandro and Mattia Compagnon to replace Šitum and Quagliata, respectively. Modena responded by substituting Pedro Mendes for Ettore Gliozzi in hopes of maintaining their attacking momentum.
In the early moments of the second half, both teams exchanged chances. Gliozzi found himself in a promising position but was cautioned for simulation after failing to win a penalty. Meanwhile, Scognamillo had a golden opportunity for Catanzaro, but his effort went high after a corner.
Modena continued to defend resolutely as the match wore on, with Catanzaro struggling to penetrate their backline. The home team’s defense, led by Cauz and Zaro, effectively neutralized Catanzaro's attacking threats, including their top scorer Pietro Iemmello, who was kept quiet throughout the match.
As the game approached its conclusion, Catanzaro intensified their efforts, desperate to find an equalizer. However, Modena’s disciplined approach and strong teamwork proved effective in thwarting their advances. The final whistle blew, confirming a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Modena.
This result marked a crucial three points for Modena, lifting them to 38 points in the league standings and providing a much-needed boost after a difficult stretch. On the other hand, Catanzaro's aspirations for the playoffs took a hit as they remained on 46 points, still in contention but needing to regroup quickly.
In the post-match reflections, Modena’s coach Mandelli expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating, "We showed resilience and determination today. This win was vital for our confidence as we look to climb higher in the standings." Meanwhile, Catanzaro’s coach Caserta acknowledged the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of bouncing back in their next fixtures.
With the Serie B season entering its final stretch, both teams will be eager to secure their objectives. Modena will look to build on this victory, while Catanzaro aims to regain their form as they push for a playoff spot. The thrilling encounter at the Braglia Stadium will be remembered as a pivotal moment in both teams’ campaigns.
