In a critical match for Serie A promotion, Palermo fell short against Catanzaro, losing 2-0 at the Renzo Barbera stadium. However, the overall playoff series concluded with Catanzaro advancing to the final round against Monza, thanks to their 3-0 victory in the first leg, giving them a 3-2 lead over the two matches.

Palermo's Early Strike

The home team, Palermo, started the match with a strong tempo and opened the scoring in the third minute. Finnish striker Joel Pohjanpalo was accurate, netting the first goal for 1-0, following an assist from Filippo Ranocchia. The home side continued to dominate, with Antonio Palumbo nearly adding a second goal in the second half after a brilliant play.

Catanzaro's Resilience

Catanzaro defended well, but their resilience was broken again in the 89th minute when substitute Ruí Modesto capitalized on a pass from Nicolò Pierozzi to score the second goal and seal the 2-0 victory. The additional time saw tensions escalate, resulting in two red cards from referee Matteo Marchenaro. Nicolò Pierozzi was sent off for a rough challenge at 90+3', and Antonio Palumbo followed at 90+5'. The referee then ended the match, provoking a furious reaction from the home crowd and a pitch invasion.

Palermo thus had no time to score a crucial third goal, while the team led by Alberto Aquilani maintained the lead from the first match. Catanzaro will now face Monza in the final playoff series, which will take place on May 24 and 29, for the last chance to join the Italian elite.