Spal's nightmare continued at Stadio Paolo Mazza on February 22, 2025, as they faced off against Campobasso, suffering their fifth consecutive defeat with a final score of 2-1. This match not only highlighted the team's defensive frailties but also their dwindling chances of achieving direct salvation from relegation.
The atmosphere was tense as the Spal fans watched their team struggle yet again, this time against Campobasso, who hadn’t enjoyed away success for four months. With only 850 dedicated supporters cheering from the stands, the weight of expectation loomed large for Spal.
From the outset, the match took a dramatic turn. Just four minutes in, Spal's defense faltered, allowing Di Nardo to score for Campobasso after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Bifulco. The early mistake set the tone for the game, putting Spal on the back foot right from the start. According to Quotidiano.net, "Horror defensive phase e colossal mistakes under the door they impose on Spal the fifth consecutive defeat."
Despite managing to create some pressure early on, Spal seemed out of sync. They squandered several chances, including hitting the crossbar, and their inability to convert opportunities proved costly. By the end of the first half, Spal found themselves trailing 0-2. An unintentional handball by Mignanelli led to a penalty for Campobasso. Although Di Nardo's initial attempt was saved by Galeotti, Pellitteri reacted quickest to net the rebound, doubling Campobasso's lead.
The second half brought little respite for the home side. Spal's players seemed to struggle with confidence as they attempted to claw their way back. Antenucci, typically the team’s beacon of hope, saw efforts thwarted by desperate defending and poor positioning. While certain moments suggested Spal might still rally, they lacked the killer instinct required to reduce the deficit earlier.
Throughout the second half, the visitors remained composed and countered strategically, often leaving Spal frustrated. Even as time dwindled, the home side's attempts fell flat and evoked disappointment. Estense.com summarized the situation succinctly: "La Spal non sa difendere e non sa più vincere," illustrating the team's growing helplessness.
Finally, the long-awaited goal came late, at the 90th minute, when Antenucci found the back of the net. This moment of brilliance offered only fleeting hope, arriving too late to change the game’s outcome. Supporters were left to reminisce over what could have been as the match concluded with Campobasso celebrating triumphantly.
The fans, who have witnessed this unfortunate streak at home since November 2024, vented their frustrations through whistles and jeers directed at the players. The dissatisfaction culminated as they left the pitch devoid of their shirts, reflecting their discontent. With 10 games remaining, it seems Spal's season hinges on their ability to resolve significant issues within the team. One associated journalist highlighted the pressing reality: "Al Mazza va in scena l’ennesimo ‘D’isastro, con quella lettera che ora deve essere scritta in maiuscolo," pointing to the gravity of their situation.
Following this match, Spal's management faces decisive performances, as relegation looms large. The atmosphere at the club is rife with tension as players, coaching staff, and supporters hope for rejuvenation. The disillusionment with coach Baldini grows, raising questions about whether he can steer the team away from the relegation zone as the specter of playoffs appears ever more likely.
With Campobasso celebrating their hard-fought victory, Spal must now regroup and assess the path forward. Their failure to capitalize on scoring opportunities, combined with glaring defensive mistakes, meandered them closer to the playoffs—the last thing they envisioned at the start of the season.
Each match now carries significant weight as Spal’s fate hangs precariously. Can they rise from the ashes of this defeat? Time will tell, but the road to recovery is steep, with every passing match underscoring the urgency for tangible improvements.