In a thrilling playoff encounter on May 7, 2025, Vis Pesaro edged out Arezzo 1-0 at the Stadio Città di Arezzo, securing their place in the national phase of the Serie C playoffs. The match, characterized by high tension and dramatic moments, saw Okoro score the decisive goal in the 70th minute, leaving the home crowd in disappointment.
The game marked the 14th meeting between the two teams, with Arezzo entering the match with a historical advantage of 8 wins against Vis Pesaro’s solitary victory from September 1992. However, the stakes were high, as Arezzo needed only a draw to advance, while Vis Pesaro was compelled to secure a win.
Despite a strong start from Arezzo, which included a close chance from Pattarello in the early minutes, the first half ended in a stalemate. Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, with Vis Pesaro’s goalkeeper Vukovic making crucial saves and Trombini doing the same for Arezzo.
The second half opened with a flurry of action. Just five minutes in, Di Paola had the opportunity to put Vis Pesaro ahead with a penalty after Guccione fouled Zoia in the box. Unfortunately for the visitors, Di Paola’s shot sailed over the crossbar, keeping the score level.
Moments later, Arezzo was awarded a penalty of their own after a VAR review confirmed a handball by Bove. Pattarello, who had been reliable from the spot previously, stepped up but also missed, sending the ball wide of the goal.
As the match progressed, Vis Pesaro found their rhythm. In the 70th minute, Nicastro delivered a brilliant pass to Okoro, who fought off Gilli’s challenge and slotted the ball past Trombini, igniting celebrations among the traveling fans.
Despite trailing, Arezzo pushed forward in search of an equalizer. They had several attempts, including a notable effort from Pattarello that was saved by Vukovic. However, the home side’s attempts were thwarted by the solid defense of Vis Pesaro.
In the dying moments of the match, Cannavò nearly doubled the lead for Vis Pesaro, hitting the crossbar with a powerful shot, but the score remained 1-0 as the final whistle blew.
The match concluded with an attendance of 3,819 spectators, who witnessed a game filled with missed opportunities and tense moments. The defeat meant that Arezzo’s season ended in disappointment, while Vis Pesaro celebrated their advancement alongside other teams like Atalanta U23, Catania, Crotone, Pescara, and Giana Erminio, all vying for promotion to Serie B.
Coach Cristian Bucchi’s decisions, particularly the late substitutions, drew criticism as they appeared to come too late to impact the game effectively. The match highlighted the fine margins that often define playoff success, with both teams having missed penalties that could have changed the outcome.
As the dust settles on this playoff clash, the focus now shifts to the next round, where the draw will determine the future path for Vis Pesaro and their quest for promotion. The excitement of the playoffs continues, with fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling competition.
In summary, the playoff match between Arezzo and Vis Pesaro was a testament to the intensity of Serie C football, showcasing the passion and resilience of both teams. With Vis Pesaro moving forward, they remain a team to watch in the coming rounds as they chase their dreams of reaching Serie B.
