CASTELLAMMARE DI STABIA, Italy — Juve Stabia extended their unbeaten start to the Serie B campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over struggling Mantova at the Stadio Romeo Menti on Tuesday evening, thanks to a fast start and resolute defending in the closing stages.

The hosts wasted no time asserting themselves, as Marco Ruggero struck in the fifth minute, capitalizing on early pressure to put Juve Stabia ahead. The goal set the tone for a dominating first half, with Juve Stabia dictating possession and tempo. Their persistence paid off again at the 20-minute mark when Leonardo Candellone doubled the advantage, finishing a fluid attacking move to make it 2-0. Mantova looked shell-shocked, struggling to string passes together and rarely threatening during the first 45 minutes.

The second half saw Juve Stabia maintain their organized shape, absorbing Mantova’s improved efforts without conceding clear chances. The visitors’ frustration was evident, culminating in a yellow card for Nicolò Radaelli in the 81st minute as they tried to disrupt Juve Stabia’s rhythm.

Despite their struggles, Mantova displayed late resilience. Deep into added time, Leonardo Mancuso pulled one back in the 94th minute, pouncing during a scramble in the Juve Stabia box to set up a nervy finish. However, it proved too late for a full comeback, as the final whistle confirmed Juve Stabia’s victory and Mantova’s fifth defeat in six matches.

This result cements Juve Stabia’s place among the early pacesetters in Serie B, moving them to 10 points and preserving their unbeaten record through six matches. Key performers included Ruggero, whose early goal settled nerves, and Candellone, whose movement and finish highlighted Juve Stabia’s attacking intent. For Mantova, Mancuso’s late goal provided a glimmer of hope, but their defensive lapses in the first half left them with too much ground to make up.

With this win, Juve Stabia continue to show they are a force to be reckoned with in the promotion chase, while Mantova are left searching for answers at the bottom end of the table after another slow start to the season.

For extended highlights, see the official Serie B YouTube recap and ESPN’s match highlights coverage.