Potenza secured a valuable three points in Serie C Group C with a disciplined 1-0 victory over AC Monopoli at the Stadio Alfredo Viviani. In a match defined by defensive organisation and small margins, Potenza made one first-half moment count and then repelled everything Monopoli threw at them.

A first-half header settles a tight contest

The only goal of the game arrived in the 28th minute. Potenza won a corner down the right and delivered an inviting cross towards the near post. The home captain rose highest and powered a header into the net, giving Monopoli goalkeeper little chance. It was a deserved lead for Potenza, who had started with more urgency and pressed Monopoli’s build-up play effectively.

Monopoli looked for an immediate response. They began to establish a foothold in midfield, shifting the ball from side to side in search of space, but Potenza remained compact behind the ball. A strong penalty appeal from the visiting side just before half-time was waved away by the referee, leaving the score at 1-0 going into the break.

Monopoli push but find no way through

The second half belonged mostly to Monopoli in terms of territory. Coach’s changes brought extra width and energy, allowing the visitors to put Potenza under sustained pressure. The hosts, however, defended with a clear game-plan, dropping into a narrow shape and challenging Monopoli to find a patient way through.

Potenza’s goalkeeper was called into action on several occasions, the most important stop coming on 72 minutes when he produced a reaction save from a point-blank header. As the game entered stoppage time, Monopoli had one final chance from a corner, but the ball flashed across the face of goal and no visiting player could apply the finishing touch.

Key moments

• 28’ – Potenza goal: a powerful near-post header from a corner makes it 1-0.
• 44’ – Penalty appeal: Monopoli feel a winger was brought down inside the area, but play continues.
• 72’ – Big save: Potenza’s keeper keeps out a close-range header to preserve the lead.
• 90+2’ – Late chance: Monopoli’s last corner is not converted.

Serie C context

The win lifts Potenza up the early Group C standings and gives the side real confidence after a mixed start to the campaign. For Monopoli, the defeat is a reminder of how competitive Serie C is, particularly away from home. With many games still to be played, both clubs will know there is plenty of time to build momentum, but the three points secured here could be significant when the final standings take shape.