Ascoli Stun Verona in Serie B Opener with Remarkable Comeback at Bentegodi

• by Shimanta Das
• August 24, 2026

The 2026-27 Serie B season kicked off with a dramatic surprise as Ascoli overturned a first-half deficit to defeat Hellas Verona 2-1 at the Stadio Bentegodi. The match, played on Sunday evening, was marked by an emotional pre-match tribute to the late Osvaldo Bagnoli, the legendary Verona coach. However, the hosts were unable to honor his memory with a victory, as Ascoli produced a stunning second-half comeback that left the home fans in disbelief.

Verona started strongly and took a deserved lead in the 21st minute. A precise run down the right by Le Borgne set up Samuele Mulattieri, who made no mistake from close range. The home side continued to dominate, with Compagnon hitting the post and Kastanos also going close. Ascoli, by contrast, struggled to create chances and appeared overwhelmed in the opening 45 minutes. Yet, the match turned dramatically in the second half.

Just seven minutes after the restart, a costly error by Kastanos gifted Ascoli an equalizer. Andrea Silipo capitalized on the mistake to level the score in the 53rd minute. Three minutes later, Simone D’Uffizi completed the turnaround with a clinical finish, silencing the Bentegodi crowd. The visitors then held firm, with goalkeeper Dailon Livramento making crucial saves in stoppage time to preserve the victory. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the Ascoli players and staff, as they secured only their second-ever win at this venue.

For Verona, this was a bitter start to their Serie B campaign, especially as they were considered favorites after relegation from Serie A. The defeat highlighted their inability to maintain intensity and avoid individual errors. Ascoli, on the other hand, showcased resilience and tactical discipline, proving that they can compete with the division’s stronger sides. The result sends a clear message: in Serie B, every match is a battle, and no lead is safe. Both teams will now look to build on this opening fixture, with Verona seeking redemption and Ascoli aiming to sustain