Mantova 0-2 Avellino: Serie B 2025-26 match report

The tactical stalemate

The atmosphere at the Stadio Danilo Martelli on Saturday afternoon suggested a high-stakes encounter, but the opening 45 minutes were defined by caution and tactical rigidity. Francesco Modesto, opting for a 3-4-2-1 formation for Mantova, sought to utilize the width of his wing-backs to stretch the Avellino defense. Conversely, Davide Ballardini’s Avellino arrived with a 4-3-1-2 setup, prioritizing central compactness and looking to stifle Mantova’s creative outlets in the final third.

Throughout the first half, neither side managed to carve out a clear-cut opportunity. Mantova’s structure allowed them to maintain a degree of control in possession, but they struggled to penetrate the Avellino defensive block. Ballardini’s side remained disciplined, absorbing the pressure and looking for quick transitions, though they were equally ineffective in the final third before the interval. The lack of rhythm meant that both goalkeepers were largely untroubled, and the teams headed into the locker rooms with the scoreline reflecting a stalemate that neither side seemed willing to break at the risk of defensive exposure.

The decisive shift

The second half began with immediate intent from the visiting dugout. Recognizing the need for a change in momentum, Ballardini introduced A. Fontanarosa and T. Biasci at the start of the second period. The tactical adjustments began to pay dividends as Avellino started to exert more influence in the midfield battles, forcing Mantova onto the back foot.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 63rd minute. L. Palmiero provided the creative spark, delivering a precise ball that allowed F. Missori to find the back of the net. The goal forced Modesto into a reactive stance; having already made two changes in the 57th minute to inject fresh legs, he was left with little choice but to push his side further forward. However, the pursuit of an equalizer left gaps in the Mantova defensive line.

Avellino managed the game with maturity, utilizing their bench to maintain the intensity of their press. The insurance goal arrived in the 86th minute, effectively killing off the contest. A. Izzo turned provider, setting up A. Favilli to double the lead. Despite a late yellow card for Mantova’s A. Dembélé in stoppage time, there was no way back for the hosts. The 2-0 scoreline was a testament to Avellino’s clinical efficiency in the second half, contrasting sharply with Mantova’s inability to translate possession into meaningful goal-scoring threats.

Looking ahead

For Avellino, the victory at the Stadio Danilo Martelli serves as a crucial affirmation of their tactical discipline under Davide Ballardini, keeping their momentum intact as the Serie B season enters its final stages. Mantova, meanwhile, will need to reassess their attacking output after failing to register a breakthrough at home, as they look to stabilize their position in the standings during the closing weeks of the campaign.