Monza secures Serie A return after play-off thriller against Catanzaro
Monza’s dramatic play-off journey ends in Serie A promotion
Monza secured their return to Serie A on Friday evening after a nerve-wracking two-legged play-off finale against Catanzaro. The Lombardy side had taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the first leg, only to see their advantage erased with a 2-0 defeat in the return match, resulting in a 2-2 aggregate draw. However, Monza’s higher league position during the regular season ultimately paved the way for their promotion to Italy’s top flight.
A rollercoaster finish in the play-offs
Monza’s promotion was far from straightforward. After dominating the first leg with goals from Fellipe Jack and Ruggero Frosinini, the team found themselves in deep trouble at home in the second match. Catanzaro’s relentless pressure paid off, as their strikers equalized on 78 minutes to force extra time. Yet, the drama didn’t end there. Monza, struggling to defend their lead, saw their dream of immediate promotion hang by a thread—until the final whistle.
Promotion decided by league standings, not play-off drama
Under the play-off rules, no extra time or penalties are played in case of a tied aggregate score. Instead, the team with the better regular-season ranking earns the promotion spot. Monza, who finished third in Serie B, edged out Catanzaro (fifth) to secure the final Serie A berth for next season.
A swift return to the elite
Monza’s promotion marks their second ascent to Serie A in four years, following their previous promotion in 2022 against Pisa. The club had briefly tasted European football during its first stint in the top flight but suffered relegation last season. This time, they are determined to establish themselves as a permanent fixture in Serie A.
