Potenza produced a scintillating attacking performance to beat Cavese 4-2 in Italian Serie C on September 20, 2026. The six-goal thriller at the Stadio Alfredo Viviani was a nightmare for defenders and a joy for neutrals.

Match Overview

Potenza raced into a three-goal lead inside 45 minutes, playing some of the best football seen in Serie C this season. Cavese, stunned by the onslaught, regrouped at half-time and pulled two goals back to set up a tense finale. But Potenza sealed the win with a late fourth goal to cap a memorable night.

Key Moments

• 5' – Potenza goal: Antonio Cianci opened the scoring with a deft finish after a slick team move.
• 23' – Potenza goal: Cianci doubled his tally, converting a penalty after a foul on the winger.
• 41' – Potenza goal: Luca Baldassin smashed home from 25 yards, giving the goalkeeper no chance.
• 55' – Cavese goal: A defensive error allowed Cavese to pull one back through Emmanuel Gyasi.
• 70' – Cavese goal: A corner was headed in at the near post, making it 3-2 and setting up a nervous finish.
• 88' – Potenza goal: Cianci completed his hat-trick with a calm finish on the counter, sealing the points.
• 90+2' – Cavese missed penalty: Cavese had a chance to reduce the deficit again, but the spot-kick was saved.

Tactical Story

Potenza's 4-3-3 high press overwhelmed Cavese in the first half. Cavese's 4-4-2 was too static, and their defense was repeatedly exposed by Potenza's quick passing and movement. In the second half, Cavese switched to a 3-5-2 and found more joy, but Potenza's counter-attacking was lethal. The game was a tactical rollercoaster.

Standout Players

• Antonio Cianci (Potenza): A stunning hat-trick, including a penalty. He was unplayable.
• Luca Baldassin (Potenza): Ran the midfield and scored a spectacular goal.
• Emmanuel Gyasi (Cavese): Scored one and was a constant threat in the second half.
• Potenza goalkeeper: Made a crucial penalty save at the end to deny Cavese a lifeline.

Season Impact

Potenza move up to fourth in Serie C, Group C, strengthening their playoff credentials. Cavese remain in 14th, just above the relegation playout zone. This result highlights Potenza's attacking potential and Cavese's defensive frailties.