The stage was set at the Arena Garibaldi Romeo Anconetani in Pisa as the home team, Pisa, faced off against Sudtirol in a thrilling encounter on May 9, 2025. This match marked the 38th round of Serie B, with Pisa already secured in promotion to Serie A, while Sudtirol aimed to bolster their position in the league.
With a capacity crowd of 25,000, the atmosphere was electric as fans celebrated Pisa's successful season. The home side, under the direction of head coach Pippo Inzaghi, fielded a 3-4-2-1 formation featuring Loria in goal, supported by Canestrelli, Rus, and Castellini in defense. The midfield was bolstered by Touré, Hojholt, Solbakken, and Sussi, while Morutan and Vignato supported striker Lind.
Sudtirol, meanwhile, opted for a 3-5-2 setup with Adamonis in goal, flanked by Giorgini, Masiello, and Martini in defense. Their midfield comprised Veseli, Mallamo, Belardinelli, Pietrangeli, and Davi, with Gori and Merkaj leading the attack.
The match kicked off at 20:30, with referee Francesco Cosso officiating the proceedings. From the outset, Sudtirol displayed a proactive approach, pressing high and trying to unsettle the Pisa defense. However, it was Pisa who created the first significant chance, with Touré forcing a corner after a powerful effort that was deflected by the Sudtirol defense.
As the match progressed, Sudtirol’s persistence paid off. In the 22nd minute, Alessandro Mallamo struck first with a stunning long-range effort that caught Loria off his line, putting Sudtirol ahead 1-0. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the visiting fans, but Pisa was determined to respond.
In the 37th minute, Sudtirol extended their lead when Gabriele Gori converted a penalty after being fouled by Hojholt in the box. The score now stood at 2-0, and the home crowd began to worry about a potential upset.
Just before halftime, Pisa managed to pull a goal back. Alexander Lind found the net in the 39th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after Vignato's shot was saved by Adamonis. This goal revived the spirits of the Pisa fans, and the first half ended 2-1 in favor of Sudtirol.
As the second half commenced, Pisa came out with renewed vigor, looking to equalize. The home side pushed forward, creating several chances but struggling to find the back of the net. Sudtirol, on the other hand, remained resilient in defense, absorbing the pressure while looking for opportunities to counterattack.
In the 67th minute, Sudtirol struck again. After a VAR check confirmed the legality of the play, Nicola Pietrangeli scored from close range, making it 3-1. This goal was a significant blow to Pisa's hopes of a comeback, but the home team refused to give up.
Pisa continued to press and was rewarded in the 78th minute when Leonardo Sernicola scored a spectacular goal, cutting Sudtirol's lead to 3-2. The home crowd erupted in joy, sensing a potential turnaround.
Despite several late efforts from Pisa, including a close header from Piccinini that went just wide, Sudtirol held firm. The match concluded with a final score of 3-2, securing a vital victory for Sudtirol as they continue their fight for survival in Serie B.
In the aftermath of the match, the atmosphere remained festive in Pisa, as fans celebrated their team's promotion to Serie A. Coach Inzaghi remarked, "While we didn't get the result we wanted today, the season has been a tremendous success for us. We look forward to the challenges ahead in Serie A."
Sudtirol’s victory was crucial in their quest to secure their place in the league, with head coach Paolo Zanetti praising his team's determination: "We showed great character today, and this win is a testament to our hard work and commitment to the season."
The match not only highlighted the competitive spirit of Serie B but also showcased the passion of Italian football, with both teams giving their all in front of a vibrant crowd. As the season nears its conclusion, both teams will be looking to build on this match as they prepare for their respective futures in Italian football.
