BARI — In a match that swung on substitutions and discipline, Bari broke their winless streak with a dramatic 2-1 comeback over Padova at Stadio San Nicola, thanks to a second-half penalty from Gabriele Moncini and a late winner by Leonardo Cerri.

Padova, coming off a run of three unbeaten games, seized control just after halftime. In the 50th minute, Mattia Bortolussi opened the scoring, finishing coolly after a clever assist from Alessandro Capelli. The visitors appeared well-positioned to build on their advantage, holding their own in possession (50%) and producing a steady flurry of chances with 17 shots, seven on target.

However, the game's momentum shifted sharply in the 69th minute. Capelli, instrumental in Padova's opener, saw red for a reckless challenge, reducing the visitors to ten men. Bari, emboldened by the numerical advantage and spurred on by a capacity home crowd, pressed forward.

Just two minutes after Capelli’s dismissal, Bari’s Moncini—introduced in the second half—won and calmly converted a penalty to level the score at 1-1 in the 71st minute. The home side, revitalized, pressed their advantage as Padova retreated into their own half.

The deciding blow arrived in the 84th minute. Mehdi Dorval, lively off the bench, surged down the right and squared for Cerri, who obliged with a decisive finish from close range. Pandemonium ensued among the Bari supporters as the hosts clinched only their second win of the campaign, propelling them out of the relegation zone and easing the pressure on coach Fabio Caserta, whose position had been under scrutiny heading into the match.

Statistically, the contest was evenly matched: both sides shared possession equally, took 15 or more shots, and each earned seven corners. Bari, however, made their chances count with greater efficiency, scoring twice from five shots on target. Bari’s defense, marshaled by Michele Cerofolini’s six saves, withstood Padova’s late flurry, particularly after going behind early in the second half.

The defeat leaves Padova ruing what might have been, especially after looking the brighter side for long stretches and playing a disciplined first hour. But two defensive lapses—a penalty and a late winner—undid their solid work and snapped their unbeaten streak. They remain anchored mid-table, while Bari climbs to 16th, their spirits renewed as they look ahead to next week's fixture.

For full highlights and match analysis, ESPN and official Serie B YouTube partners—such as DAZN Italia and Serie BKT, both with well over 50,000 subscribers—provide trusted, comprehensive recaps of all the key action.

Bari’s comeback, fueled by impactful substitutes and a pivotal red card, delivers new life in a tightly contested Serie B season.