The final match of Saturday’s Serie B schedule brings together Cesena and Mantova at the Dino Manuzzi Stadium, kicking off at 19:30. Both sides were promoted not long ago, yet their current trajectories in the league could not be more different. While Cesena are pushing for promotion to Serie A, Mantova are struggling to stay clear of the relegation zone. This encounter promises to be a fascinating clash between ambition and survival instincts.

Cesena’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Cesena enter this fixture sitting third in the Serie B standings with 27 points, a position that keeps them firmly in the race for promotion. Their recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, with two wins, one draw and two defeats in their last five matches. The most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw away to Calcio Padova on December 8, a result that left a bittersweet taste after taking an early lead. Nevertheless, the team’s overall performance this season remains solid, with a record of 8 wins, 3 draws and 4 losses, averaging 1.4 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game.

At home, Cesena have shown remarkable defensive discipline. Under 3.5 goals have been recorded in each of their last 18 home matches, and they have not lost at half time in 18 of their last 20 games overall. Their ability to start strong is also notable, having led at the break in their last three home fixtures in Serie B. The home crowd at the Dino Manuzzi often plays a decisive role, and with the team’s current momentum, Cesena will look to capitalize on that support to secure another crucial win.

• Under 3.5 goals in 29 of their last 31 matches.


• Unbeaten at half time in 18 of their last 20 games.


• Won at half time in their last 3 home matches in Serie B.


• Head-to-head record vs Mantova: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss.

Mantova’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Mantova approach this match in a difficult moment. After a brief resurgence with three consecutive victories, they have now lost two in a row, including a 0-1 defeat to Reggiana on December 8. Those setbacks have dragged them back into the relegation zone, and their away form remains a major concern. The Lombard side have lost five of their seven away matches this season, continuing a trend from last year when they averaged less than one point per away game.

In terms of season statistics, Mantova have collected 4 wins, 2 draws and 9 losses, scoring an average of 0.9 goals per match while conceding 1.5. Their struggles on the road are particularly evident in the first halves of games: they have failed to win at half time in their last 15 away fixtures and have trailed at the break in 9 of those. The team’s lack of consistency and attacking sharpness away from home could once again prove costly against a well-organized Cesena side.

• Lost 0-1 to Reggiana in their last match.


• Have not won at half time in their last 15 away games.


• Average goals scored: 0.9; conceded: 1.5 per match.


• Five defeats in seven away matches this season.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

Historically, the meetings between Cesena and Mantova have produced goals and drama. In last season’s encounters, Cesena triumphed 4-2 at home, while Mantova responded with a 3-0 victory in the return fixture. Overall, Cesena hold a slight edge in the recent head-to-head record, with three wins, one draw and one defeat, averaging 2.2 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per match.

From a tactical perspective, Cesena’s strength lies in their compact defensive structure and ability to control possession, particularly at home. Mantova, on the other hand, often rely on counterattacks but have struggled to maintain balance between defense and attack. Given Cesena’s strong home record and Mantova’s away difficulties, the hosts appear to have the upper hand heading into this clash.

With both teams showing a tendency for low-scoring matches — Cesena’s last 17 home games in Serie B have all featured under 3.5 goals — this could be another tight contest. However, the home side’s superior form and confidence make them clear favorites to claim all three points.

Cesena vs Mantova Prediction

According to the latest data, the win probabilities stand at Cesena 55%, Draw 26%, and Mantova 19%. The Under 2.5 goals market also appears likely with a 58% probability, while Both Teams To Score – No is slightly favored at 56%. Taking into account the current form, home advantage, and head-to-head record, the most probable outcome points towards a home win (1).

Cesena vs Mantova prediction by BetMines:
Home Win (1) with 55% probability.