Cesena vs Athletic Carpi

The introduction of Schirone and Castorri at the start of the second half transformed Cesena's energy. Where the first half was passive and disjointed, the reshuffle injected urgency and forward running. Schirone, in particular, added drive from midfield and attempted two long-range shots that hinted at his potential value in the season ahead.

Xavello Druiventak — The match-winner. The 21-year-old Dutch striker needed only one moment of quality to decide the game, and his solo goal showed the pace and technique that convinced Cesena to hand him a contract until 2028.

Antonio David — The 21-year-old left-back, back from a loan at Inter's U23 side, impressed with his stamina and composure. With Gianluca Frabotta still recovering from post-surgery rehab, David is making a strong case to start the season at left-back.

Maat Caprini — The new Fiorentina loanee showed physicality and direct running on the left flank. His near-miss header in the 81st minute was Cesena's best chance to double the lead.

Cesena's first-half defence — While the attack drew blanks, the back four held firm. Carpi's pressure never translated into a clear goalscoring chance, and Siano's save from Sall was the only moment of genuine danger.

Cesena closed their two-week Acquapartita camp with a second pre-season win. The squad returns to Villa Silvia for the next phase of preparation, with the Serie B opener against Sampdoria on the horizon. Diamanti took over after Ashley Cole's brief eight-game stint ended in June, and the former Italy international is still implementing his ideas.

For Carpi, this was the first test of pre-season. Cassani's side will move to their training camp at Fiumalbo before facing Pistoiese in their next friendly. They begin their Serie C campaign later in August.

A functional pre-season workout that told Diamanti as much about his squad's weaknesses as its strengths. Cesena's first-half struggles were a clear signal of the fitness and tactical work still needed. Druiventak's moment of quality was the difference — and the Dutchman looks like the kind of player who can win tight games from nothing. For Carpi, the first 45 minutes offered real encouragement for the Serie C campaign ahead.

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Cesena — First half (4-3-3): Siano; Bisoli, Zaro, Mangraviti, David; Francesconi, Castagnetti, Casadei M.; Tosku, Druiventak, Caprini. Second half: changes included Fontana, Piacentini, Natta, Bertaccini, Arrigoni, Schirone, Castorri, Shpendi, Zamagni, Casadei T. Coach: Alessandro Diamanti.

Athletic Carpi — First half (3-4-2-1): Scacchetti; Zagnoni, Lombardi, Rossini; Cecotti, Figoli, Astrologo, Vitale; Zarpellon, Puletto; Sall. Second half: Gasperini, Nesi, Desole, Maggio, Tcheuna, Bagatti, Casarini, Giva, Viti, Forapani, Piccirillo, Montipò. Coach: Stefano Cassani.

Goal: 53' Druiventak (Cesena).