The 20th round of Serie C has offered up some riveting football across the various groups. Over the course of four days, teams battled fiercely for points, marking the mid-season point of the competition and showcasing potential playoff contenders and those fighting relegation.
Beginning on Friday, December 20, 2024, the action kickstarted with two matches. Benevento secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Cavese, with early goals from Manconi and Perlingieri securing the lead for the visitors, even as Saio managed to score for Cavese (According to Tutto Calcio Campano). Meanwhile, Monopoli demonstrated dominance with a decisive 3-0 win against Turris, courtesy of early contributions from Angileri and two goals from Grandolfo, making him one of the standout performers of the round.
The following day, Saturday, December 21, presented another full slate of matches. Audace Cerignola and Juventus Next Gen played to a thrilling 3-3 draw, highlighted by multiple lead changes and goals from both sides. Significant contributions came from Palumbo for Juventus and Visentin for Cerignola. On the other hand, Casertana faced Latin and fell to a 0-2 defeat, with Vona and Riccardi scoring for the visitors.
The matchday continued with Team Altamura going head-to-head against Crotone but faced defeat as well. Crotone took home the three points with Tumminello scoring twice, ensuring Crotone remains competitive as they hunt for playoff spots.
Sunday, December 22, saw more action, beginning with Potenza managing to edge out ACR Messina with Petrungaro scoring the opener and Rosafio adding another, clinching the game with a 2-1 final score. Avellino showcased defensive prowess as they battled Picerno to secure their own narrow 1-0 win, thanks to Cionek's 42nd-minute goal.
One of the highlights of the weekend was undoubtedly Catania's overwhelming performance, defeating Sorrento 4-0, with Inglese leading the scoring effort and netting three goals—a hat-trick performance to be remembered. Taranto's struggle continued as they lost 0-2 to Giugliano, cementing their position at the lower end of the standings.
On Monday, December 23, Trapani prepared to face Foggia to complete the round. This match was scheduled to broadcast live on Sky Sport and RaiSport.
The current standings post 20th round bring Benevento to the top with 40 points, closely followed by Monopoli at 38. Avellino, Potenza, and Audace Cerignola are tied at 35, showing how competitive the league is. Trapani's performance will be key as the team finds themselves just below the playoff spots and hopes to improve their standing.
Looking at the league table, it's clear the battle for promotion places is heating up. Meanwhile, teams like Juventus Next Gen and ACR Messina have struggled, remaining at the bottom of their respective standings, and facing challenges as the season continues.
The 20th round of the 2024/2025 Serie C season has fully illustrated the unpredictability and excitement of lower-tier Italian football. With teams vying for every point and pushing for playoff positions or battling relegation, fans can expect more intense matches as the season progresses.
