On Friday, May 9, 2025, the Stadio “Arena Garibaldi-Romeo Anconetani” in Pisa witnessed an electrifying encounter between Pisa and Sudtirol in the 38th match of the Serie B season. The match ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, a result that confirmed Sudtirol's mathematical salvation with one game to spare.
Pisa, having already secured promotion to Serie A in the previous round, entered the match with high spirits despite a narrow loss to Bari in their last outing. The home team, managed by Filippo Inzaghi, showcased a 3-4-2-1 formation, eager to celebrate their return to Italy's top flight after a 34-year absence.
Sudtirol, on the other hand, was looking to solidify their position in the league and came into the match on the back of three consecutive victories. Under the guidance of coach Fabrizio Castori, they aimed to achieve mathematical certainty of survival.
The match kicked off with both teams showing intensity, but it was Sudtirol who struck first. In the 22nd minute, Mallamo fired a precise shot from distance that found the back of the net, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. Just 13 minutes later, Sudtirol doubled their lead when Gori converted a penalty after being fouled in the box by Højholt. The score was now 2-0, and Sudtirol seemed to be in control.
However, Pisa responded just before halftime. In the 39th minute, Lind managed to head the ball into the net following a rebound from a shot by Vignato, reducing the deficit to 1-2. The energy in the stadium surged as the home fans rallied behind their team.
As the second half commenced, Sudtirol maintained their composure and extended their lead once again. In the 67th minute, Pietrangeli scored from close range, making it 3-1 for Sudtirol. It seemed like the visitors were on their way to a comfortable victory.
But Pisa was not done yet. In the 78th minute, Sernicola found the net with a well-placed shot, narrowing the score to 2-3 and reigniting hopes of a comeback for the home side. The atmosphere grew electric as Pisa pushed forward, desperately seeking an equalizer.
Finally, in the dying moments of the match, with just seconds remaining in added time, Rus stepped up to take a free kick from outside the box. His powerful shot struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced in, leveling the score at 3-3. The stadium erupted in celebration as Pisa salvaged a point from what seemed to be a lost cause.
The match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils, but the real winner was Sudtirol, who secured their place in Serie B for another season. The draw left them in a comfortable mid-table position, while Pisa's focus now shifts to their upcoming matches in Serie A.
After the match, coach Fabrizio Castori expressed his pride in his team's performance, stating, "We showed great character to secure our place in the league. This point is vital for us as we look to build for the future." Meanwhile, Inzaghi, who was absent due to suspension, praised his team's fighting spirit, saying, "We never gave up, and that's the mentality we need moving forward into Serie A."
The match was officiated by referee Francesco Cosso, with a total attendance of 10,378 fans, who were treated to an unforgettable evening of football. With the Serie B season nearing its conclusion, both teams will look to carry this momentum into their respective futures.
Pisa's next challenge comes on May 13, 2025, as they prepare to face Bari in their final match of the season, while Sudtirol will look to finish strong against the same opponent in their next fixture.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, both teams can take valuable lessons into their next matches. For Sudtirol, the point gained is a testament to their resilience, while Pisa's late equalizer showcases their determination and potential as they head into a new chapter in Serie A.
