Cesena vs Modena Match Recap - Nov 28, 2025

Cesena's Resilience Shines in Narrow Victory Over Modena

Cesena's 1-0 victory over Modena underscores their defensive solidity and the emergence of Jalen Blesa as a key player. This match at Stadio Dino Manuzzi was not just a battle for points; it was a statement of intent from a team that has faced inconsistency in recent weeks. With this win, Cesena climbs to third place in Serie B, now just two points behind Modena, who remain in second.

Blesa's goal in the 43rd minute proved decisive, marking his resurgence after a quiet spell. The forward had been instrumental in Cesena's previous matches, scoring in their 3-0 win against Avellino and contributing significantly to their attacking play. His ability to find the net when it matters most has become a hallmark of his game, and this performance further solidifies his role as a crucial player for Michele Mignani's side.

Modena's recent form has been characterized by dominance in possession but a troubling inability to convert chances into goals. Despite leading in shots on goal (5 to 2) and total shots (11 to 10), they failed to capitalize on their opportunities. This trend has been evident in their last five matches, where they have struggled to find the back of the net consistently, culminating in a frustrating goalless draw against Sudtirol just days prior. Their inability to finish reflects a deeper issue within the squad, particularly for players like Grégoire Defrel, who has not found his scoring touch recently.

Statistically, Modena outperformed Cesena in several key areas, including ball possession (56% to 44%) and passing accuracy (89% to 87%). Yet, these numbers tell only part of the story. While they controlled the game for large stretches, their lack of clinical finishing ultimately cost them dearly. The contrast between their statistical superiority and the final score highlights a critical weakness that Andrea Sottil must address moving forward.

Cesena's defensive unit, anchored by Massimiliano Mangraviti and Giovanni Zaro, showcased resilience against Modena's attacking threats. They absorbed pressure effectively, limiting Modena's clear-cut chances and forcing them into long-range efforts that rarely troubled goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann. This defensive performance is a testament to Mignani's tactical setup, which has evolved to prioritize solidity while still allowing for quick transitions into attack.

The match also highlighted the importance of set pieces and tactical discipline. Both teams had five corner kicks each, but it was Cesena's ability to capitalize on their opportunities that made the difference. The goal from Blesa came at a crucial moment just before halftime, shifting momentum firmly in Cesena's favor. This timing is often pivotal in football, and Cesena's ability to strike when it mattered most reflects their growing confidence.

Modena's struggles in front of goal raise questions about their attacking strategy moving forward. Despite having players capable of creating chances, such as Francesco Zampano and Simone Santoro, they need to find a way to convert possession into tangible results. The upcoming match against Catanzaro will be critical for them to regain their scoring touch and maintain pressure on the league leaders.

Cesena's victory not only boosts their morale but also sets the stage for a crucial away match against Padova next week. With Blesa finding form and the defense looking increasingly solid, they will be eager to build on this momentum. The win serves as a reminder that even amidst inconsistency, resilience can lead to vital points in the race for promotion.

This match encapsulated the ongoing narrative of both teams: Cesena's quest for stability and Modena's search for offensive potency. As the season progresses, these themes will continue to shape their respective journeys in Serie B. For Cesena, this victory is a step toward reclaiming their early-season form; for Modena, it is a wake-up call that highlights the need for improvement if they wish to remain competitive at the top of the table.