A fierce rejection: Palermo is on the verge of collapse

A major upset is brewing in Serie B: The highly decorated Palermo is in danger of failing in the promotion round – and in a spectacular fashion.

17 May 2026

From: fop

The Sicilians, who are considered the heavy favorites in the playoff alongside Monza, lost the first leg of their semi-final against Catanzaro 3-0 away from home. The Calabrians, in yellow and red, had previously eliminated Avellino – now they are dreaming of a major upset.

Palermo were completely overwhelmed by Catanzaro on Sunday evening. Above all, striker Pietro Iemmello was unstoppable. He scored twice in the opening stages and provided a perfect assist for the 3-0 goal by the 19-year-old Mattia Liberali shortly before halftime.

Catanzaro now holds all the cards for Wednesday's second leg. In the other semi-final, Monza already secured a 2-2 draw away against Juve Stabia on Saturday. Another draw in Tuesday's return leg will be enough for the Lombardy side to reach the final.