In a thrilling encounter at the Romeo Neri stadium, Rimini secured a vital 4-2 victory against Sestri Levante on Sunday, March 30, 2025, in a match that showcased the attacking prowess of both teams. The match, part of the 34th matchday of the Serie C championship, drew an enthusiastic crowd of 2,431 spectators, eager to see if Rimini could break their home losing streak.
Rimini, coming off a historic victory in the first leg of the Coppa Italia final, was determined to turn their fortunes around after suffering three consecutive defeats at home. Coach Antonio Buscè made strategic changes to the lineup, with key players like Colombi and De Vitis sidelined due to injuries. The team started strong, featuring a 5-3-2 formation with Vitali in goal, supported by Bellodi, Gorelli, and Megelaitis in defense.
From the opening whistle, Rimini demonstrated their intent. Just five minutes into the match, Parigi opened the scoring with a stunning goal, capitalizing on a long ball from Vitali. Parigi skillfully evaded his marker and executed a deft lob over the Sestri Levante goalkeeper, Guadagno, to make it 1-0. Less than a minute later, he doubled the lead, as Guadagno mishandled a cross, allowing Parigi to pounce and score his second goal, bringing his tally to eleven for the season.
With a 2-0 lead, Rimini maintained control, creating several chances. The home side's third goal came in the 63rd minute when Cinquegrano, receiving a brilliant pass from Megelaitis, struck a powerful shot from a tight angle, leaving Guadagno with no chance. This goal seemed to seal the game for Rimini, pushing the score to 3-0.
However, Sestri Levante, fighting to avoid relegation, responded with determination. Just four minutes after Rimini's third goal, Parravicini found the net, converting a header from a Clemenza cross. This goal reignited hope for the visitors, reducing the deficit to 3-1.
Rimini quickly retaliated, with Cinquegrano scoring again in the 75th minute. Following a swift counter-attack, Falbo delivered a perfect cross, allowing Cinquegrano to head home his second of the match, restoring Rimini's three-goal cushion at 4-1.
Despite the setback, Sestri Levante refused to back down. In the 81st minute, Nunziatini scored a header from a Podda cross, bringing the score to 4-2. The visitors pushed for another goal, but Rimini's defense held firm in the closing moments.
The match ended with Rimini celebrating a much-needed victory, lifting them to 43 points in the league standings, while Sestri Levante remained in the relegation zone with just 26 points. The result marked a significant turnaround for Rimini, who had struggled at home but now looked forward to building on this momentum.
Coach Buscè praised his team's performance, highlighting the importance of the win. "We needed this victory to regain confidence. The players showed great character and determination today," he said. On the other hand, Sestri Levante's coach, Alberto Ruvo, acknowledged the challenges ahead for his team. "We have to regroup and focus on our next matches. Every point counts in our fight against relegation," he stated.
With the season nearing its end, both teams will need to harness the lessons learned from this match as they continue their respective battles in Serie C. Rimini will aim to maintain their winning form, while Sestri Levante must find a way to turn their fortunes around in the coming weeks.
