Catanzaro and SudTirol played out a gripping 2-2 draw in the Coppa Italia on 16 August 2026, leaving the tie to be decided in extra time. The match at Stadio Nicola Ceravolo was full of momentum shifts, with both Serie B sides showing attacking ambition and defensive vulnerability in equal measure.

The home side started strongly and emerged in front through a well-worked attacking move in the first half. Catanzaro’s forward pulled away from his marker and produced a composed finish to give his team the lead. SudTirol grew into the game gradually and began to create chances as the half wore on. They eventually equalised when a corner was cleared only as far as the edge of the box and a first-time shot found its way through a crowded penalty area.

A second-half battle in the Coppa Italia

After the break, Catanzaro regained control and pressed forward in search of a second goal. The pressure paid off just past the hour mark when a well-timed run in behind the SudTirol defence was rewarded with a tidy finish to make it 2-1. SudTirol again responded, showing why they are a difficult side to shake off. With the match entering the final ten minutes, an equaliser arrived through a bit of scrappy play in the box, and the visiting side celebrated as the tie was suddenly level at 2-2.

The remaining minutes saw both teams cautious, aware that any mistake could prove fatal. Possession shifted frequently, but neither side could find a winner, meaning extra time was needed to separate the two Coppa Italia hopefuls.

Key takeaways

This result highlighted the attacking quality of both Catanzaro and SudTirol, while also exposing the defensive issues that have to be addressed during the early part of the season. For Catanzaro, the draw gives them the backing of home support heading into the additional period. For SudTirol, the equaliser will provide significant confidence and momentum.

With the Coppa Italia already delivering drama on the opening day of the competition, this 2-2 tie will be remembered among the more competitive first-round fixtures of 2026.