Play Off Serie B 2025-2026: Monza-Catanzaro, the probable formations

Friday night at 8 p.m., the U-Power Stadium hosts the final act of the Serie B season with the challenge between Monza and Catanzaro, the play-off return final. On the strength of the 2-0 first leg at the “Ceravolo” signed by Hernani and Caso, Paolo Bianco’s lineup “sees” a return to Serie A one year after relegation, also strong with favorable season precedents. On the other side, Alberto Aquilani’s Catanzaro, absent from the top flight for 43 years, is called to a historic feat. The Calabrians have already shown that they can overturn the odds by eliminating Palermo in the semifinals, but getting the Brianzoli back on the road will be a tricky challenge. These last ninety minutes will determine who will join Venezia and Frosinone in the next Serie A championship.

To defend the lead, Paolo Bianco relies on a balanced team to contain the opponents. Thiam between the posts, defensive line composed of Birindelli, Delli Carri and Carboni, midfield space for Hernani and Pessina in the middle, with Bakoune and Azzi on the outside lanes. On the three-quarter will act Colpani and Mota in support of the only Cutrone point.

Alberto Aquilani responds in a mirror image but relies on a decidedly attacking stance to seek the comeback goals. Pigliacelli will lead the defense assisted by Cassandro, Matias Antonini and Brighenti. In midfield, Pontisso and Petriccione will be the midfielders, with Favasuli and Di Francesco wide on the flanks. Forward, Alesi and Iemmello will play behind Pittarello.

Probable lineups

Monza (3-4-2-1): Thiam; Birindelli, Delli Carri, Carboni; Bakoune, Hernani, Pessina, Azzi; Colpani, Mota; Cutrone. All. Bianco.

Catanzaro (3-4-2-1): Pigliacelli; Cassandro, Matias Antonini, Brighenti; Favasuli, Pontisso, Petriccione, Di Francesco; Alesi, Iemmello; Pittarello. All. Aquilani.