Salernitana 2-1 Cittadella: Stoppage time drama gives the hosts three points
On August 17, 2024 by Jake IovineSalernitana completed a stoppage time comeback on Saturday night to beat Cittadella 2-1 in the Serie B season opener.
A goal from Flavius Daniliuc plus a Matteo Angeli own goal past the 90th minute gave Giovanni Martuciello’s side three points at the Stadio Arechi. Salernitana starts their season with two victories after defeating Spezia in the Coppa Italia the week prior, while Cittadella have now lost two consecutive games.
“It’s normal to feel bitter,” Cittadella head coach Edoardo Gorini said after the match. “When you lose a game in stoppage time after you were eyeing a victory, there’s a lot of regret.”
Gorini made three changes from last weekend’s Coppa Italia exit to Sassuolo. 21-year-old defender Andrea Cecchetto made his second professional start while Simone Branca returned to the starting lineup.
The Venetian team got on the board in the eighth minute when Simone Rabbi scored his first goal for the Granata off a low assist from Alessio Vita.
The hosts pushed for an equalizer in the second half, dominating with 74% possession after halftime. Cittadella struggled to create an opportunity in the second half, failing to attempt a single shot on target.
Salernitana’s breakthrough came in the third minute of stoppage time after Flavius Daniliuc’s looping header found the net. Four minutes later, the hosts took the lead after Simy’s clever turn and shot deflected off Matteo Angeli and rolled into the corner.
Despite being ahead for 85 minutes, Salernitana pulled a stoppage time comeback to steal three points on the opening night of the Serie B season.
“Obviously there’s still room for improvement,” Gorini said. “I’m sorry because I believe a draw was deserved at least.”
Cittadella return to action next Saturday against Brescia, while Salernitana will face Sudtirol at the Stadio Druso.
TOP PHOTO: Alessandro Garofalo/LaPresse