Play Off Serie C 2025-2026: Ravenna-Salernitana, the probable formations

The Serie C playoffs are entering the thick of the action and heading into the closing stages. On Wednesday, May 20, at 8:45 p.m., the spotlights at the “Bruno Benelli” stadium will be turned on for the match between Ravenna and Salernitana, a match valid for the return leg of the second round of the national phase.

The hosts of Ravenna must make up the 2-0 suffered in the first leg at the Arechi stadium, signed by the goals scored by Lescano and Anastasio. After eliminating Cittadella in the previous double-header, the Giallorossi’s adventure is now at great risk. Mandorlini’s men find themselves with their backs against the wall and obliged to win in front of their own walls, where, however, they will benefit from the strong push of their fans.

On the opposite side, Salernitana is led on the bench by Serse Cosmi. Taking over the Granata bench in March after three and a half years without a bench, the coach is aiming to play a leading role in this post-season. His league roster speaks of six wins and only three losses in nine matches. In the playoff run, the granata first overcame Casertana 3-2 and then secured qualification thanks to a 1-1 draw. On Wednesday night, it would be enough not to lose by more than a goal difference to advance to the semifinals.

Ravenna, led by Mandorlini, will have to do without Viola, who is disqualified. A possible change is the use of Da Pozzo on the right, while in attack Okaka, not at his best, could be replaced by one of Motti or Spini. The defense will be headed by the Bianconi-Donati-Esposito trio to shield the goal defended by Poluzzi.

Mister Cosmi can count on the full complement thanks to the returns of Matino, who has finished serving his suspension from the sports judge, and Arena, who is again enrolled after his physical stop. Despite the recoveries, the coach is oriented to give confidence to the same block as three days ago, protagonist of the convincing 2-0 success at Arechi.

In the tactical checkerboard of the usual 3-4-1-2, Donnarumma will defend the goal, protected by the defensive line composed of Berra, Golemic and Anastasio. On the side lanes, space will be given to Cabianca and Villa, with the De Boer-Toscano pair dictating the tempo in the middle of the field. Up front, Ferraris will be tasked with moving around the three-quarter to trigger the attacking tandem formed by Ferrari and Lescano.

Probable formations

RAVENNA (3-5-2): Poluzzi; Donati, Bianconi, Esposito; Da Pozzo, Mandorlini, Lonardi, Tenkorang, Bani; Fischnaller, Motti. All. Mandorlini.

SALERNITANA (3-4-1-2): Donnarumma; Berra, Golemic, Anastasio; Cabianca, De Boer, Tascone, Villa; Ferraris; Ferrari, Lescano. All. Cosmi.