AZ Picerno 2-4 Catania FC: Six-goal thriller ends in away masterclass

Catania FC produced a ruthless attacking performance to win 4-2 at AZ Picerno ASD in Italian Serie C, turning a high-tempo contest into a demonstration of finishing quality. The visitors scored four times at Stadio Donato Curcio, with a brace from Roberto Inglese and further goals from Cosimo Chiricò and Filippo D'Andrea securing a memorable three points.

Picerno contributed to an entertaining encounter and twice threatened to make a game of it, but Catania's superior efficiency in the final third proved decisive. The win strengthens Catania's promotion credentials and leaves Picerno searching for consistency.

Match overview

• Competition: Italian Serie C
• Home team: AZ Picerno ASD
• Away team: Catania FC
• Final score: AZ Picerno ASD 2-4 Catania FC
• Venue: Stadio Donato Curcio, Picerno

Key moments

Catania opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Roberto Inglese powered a header past the goalkeeper from a right-wing cross. Picerno equalized on 28 minutes through a well-placed shot from Pasquale Maiorino. Catania regained the lead in the 41st minute as Cosimo Chiricò curled a free-kick into the top corner. Inglese added his second on 55 minutes, finishing calmly after a defensive error. Picerno pulled one back on 70 minutes with a close-range strike, but Filippo D'Andrea sealed the win in the 84th minute with a low drive on the break.

• 12' — Roberto Inglese heads Catania in front
• 28' — Pasquale Maiorino equalizes for Picerno
• 41' — Cosimo Chiricò restores Catania's lead
• 55' — Roberto Inglese scores his second
• 70' — Picerno reduce the deficit
• 84' — Filippo D'Andrea clinches it for Catania

Tactical story

Catania lined up with an attacking 4-3-3 and looked to isolate Inglese against Picerno's centre-backs while Chiricò drifted inside from the right. Picerno tried to press high and disrupt Catania's rhythm, but the visitors' quick vertical passing repeatedly opened up space behind the home defence. After taking a 3-1 lead, Catania sat slightly deeper and invited pressure before striking on the counter for the fourth goal.

Standout players

Roberto Inglese was the headline act with two goals and a constant physical presence. Cosimo Chiricò added creativity and a spectacular free-kick, while Filippo D'Andrea's late goal capped a bright cameo. For Picerno, Pasquale Maiorino was the most dangerous player and his goal briefly gave the home side hope.

Season impact

Catania's victory reinforces their push for promotion and adds to an already impressive scoring record in Serie C. Picerno remain a threat on their day but must address defensive lapses if they are to move up the table. The result also improves Catania's away form and gives them a psychological edge in future head-to-head meetings between the clubs.