Italian Championship. Serie C. Group B
Serie C Group B stands as one of four divisions in Italy's third-tier football, featuring driven clubs from central and northern regions. With 20 teams vying for promotion to Serie B, survival, and honors, it delivers fierce rivalry where Serie A veterans mix with youth setups and storied names.
History and foundation
Established in 2014 post-Lega Pro reform, Group B echoes divisions from 1935 onward. Key moments: Modena's 2021/22 triumph, returning to Serie B after 16 years; Monza's nail-biting 2019 playoff survival under Galliani. The 2020 COVID-shortened season highlighted resilience of outfits like Lungonotto.
Tournament format
The setup pits 20 teams in a 38-match double round-robin. 1st earns direct Serie B promotion, 2nd-10th enter playoffs for another spot. 18th-19th face relegation playoffs, 20th drops to Serie D. Playoffs are knockout to semifinals, home advantage for higher seeds.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 2.4, defense-dominant with 45% over 2.5 totals. Top scorers: Stefano Andreade (25 for Pontedera, 2018/19), Massimo Cottafuo (24 for Modena). Stars: Christian Panucci (youth debut), Alessandro Del Piero (Padova roots), Filippo Inzaghi (Piacenza rise). Current gems: Raffaelle Micant (Lucchese defender), striker Giuseppe Fusco.