Cesena Women 2-1 San Marino Calcio Academy (W): Late Composure Earns Cesena Pre-Season Victory

Cesena Women signed off their friendly schedule with a spirited 2-1 win over San Marino Calcio Academy (W) on 23 August 2026. The result highlighted Cesena’s growing sharpness in front of goal, while the Sammarinese outfit showed enough promise to suggest they will be competitive in their upcoming league campaign.

Match overview

From the first whistle, Cesena Women dominated possession and looked the more dangerous side. They took a deserved lead midway through the first half with a well-worked team goal, only for San Marino to respond before the break with a clinical equaliser. The second half proved tighter, but a decisive strike from Cesena secured the friendly spoils.

Key moments

• Cesena opener: A patient passing move ended with a low cross being turned in at the near post.
• San Marino equaliser: The visitors struck on a rare counter-attack, finishing coolly from the edge of the box.
• Winner: Cesena reclaimed the lead after a corner kick was not cleared, allowing a defender to poke home from a scramble.

Tactical story

Cesena Women controlled the midfield area, with their holding player dictating the rhythm and their wide players stretching San Marino’s defensive line. San Marino stayed compact and relied on quick transitions, which produced their goal and a few half-chances. Ultimately, Cesena’s superior depth and patience in attack wore down the visitors.

Standout performers

Cesena’s midfield anchor was influential throughout, leading the press and distributing accurately across the pitch. The home striker also impressed with her movement, creating space for teammates while also being in the right place for the decisive goals. For San Marino Calcio Academy, the goalkeeper made several strong saves to keep her team in the match.

Context and outlook

For Cesena Women, this victory continues a positive pre-season as they prepare for a demanding schedule. San Marino Calcio Academy (W) will take encouragement from the way they responded to going behind, but will need to tighten up defensively against sustained pressure. Friendlies such as this provide vital match sharpness, and both teams will value the minutes gained.