Fabrizio Castori is fighting with FC Südtirol to avoid relegation in Serie B. © T. Debelyak

Before the hot phase: How well is the FCS positioned?

First, there's the international break. The FC Südtirol players have a free weekend, so they can take it a bit easier. But after that, things will be fast-paced. How well is coach Fabrizio Castori's team positioned for the season finale?

March 19, 2025

From: cst

FC Südtirol has collected 34 points in their 30 matches so far. FCS coach Castori has the White and Reds averaging 1,50 points. That would be enough to stay in Serie B without a playoff. For Castori himself, this is his most successful period in five years – back when he was still at Salernitana.

FC Südtirol is heading in the right direction. Nevertheless, Castori will have to make some adjustments during the international break.

Who is playing on the left?

One of the White-Reds' problem areas is the left wing. Since Karim Zedadka's injury-related absence (cruciate ligament tear), neither Simone Davi nor winter signing Antonio Barreca have been able to make a lasting impression. Recently, Barreca seemed to have the edge, but his poor performance against Carrarese raises questions. Davi hasn't been able to replicate his strong preseason performance this season, but remains in the running for more playing time.

Antonio Barreca duels with Simone Davi on the left. © FC Südtirol

Castori will be without Mateusz Praszelik for the next match against Mantova (March 29, 15 p.m.). The Pole had established himself in the front-of-the-back position in the spring. However, the unnecessary sending-off of Carrarese now opens up an opportunity for other players. The question will be whether captain Fabian Tait is fit enough to start. If so, Tait could be a candidate for the starting six. Raphael Kofler also played there under Castori, but is currently with the U20 national team.

Many options for Castori

Even though Praszelik will have to watch Mantova play, coach Castori has numerous options. Luca Belardinelli has recently overtaken Finnish U21 international Niklas Pyyhtiä for the position in midfield. However, Belardinelli hasn't been entirely convincing. This opens up new opportunities for Jacopo Martini to get playing time, especially since Pyyhtiä will return from international duty late.

Alessandro Mallamo, on the other hand, has completely disappeared from the radar. While Castori used him regularly at the beginning of his tenure, he played just 28 minutes in the new year. Castori has left Mallamo out entirely in the last four games. Winter signings Edoardo Vergani and Gabriele Gori have also played a minor role.

Andrea Masiello is fit again.

The FCS coach is spoiled for choice in defense. Veteran Andrea Masiello is fit again and is pushing for a place in the starting lineup. Hamza El Kaouakibi is also recommended for more playing time. The Moroccan can also play on the right wing. With Andrea Giorgini, Nicola Pietrangeli, and Frederic Veseli performing well recently, Castori saw little reason for changes.

The FCS program after the international break

Mantova (A)
Cesena (H)
Salernitana (A)
Bari (H)
Juve Stabia (H)
Palermo (A)
Cosenza (H)
Pisa (A)