PALERMO, Italy (Interstat) — Palermo looks to build on a dramatic late victory when it hosts a resilient Padova side in Serie B action Saturday at Stadio Renzo Barbera.

The match pits two clubs with contrasting recent forms. Palermo (8-4-3) enters on a high after a last-gasp 2-1 win over Ragusa last Sunday, secured with a goal in second-half stoppage time. That result provided a boost following a stretch of inconsistent league play, including a 3-1 loss to Savoia and a 2-2 draw with Avellino earlier in December.

Padova (4-8-3) arrives unbeaten in its last three outings, showcasing a stubborn defensive identity. It played to a 1-1 draw with promotion-chasing Sampdoria last Saturday. Prior to that, Padova earned a 2-1 road win at Reggiana and a 1-1 draw with Cesena. However, its attack has been sporadic, failing to score in three of its last eight matches.

Historically, this fixture carries weight in Italy’s second tier. The teams last met in the 2023-24 season, with Palermo taking four points from the two matches.

Padova’s campaign has been defined by draws, with eight in 15 matches. Its ability to secure points on the road will be tested against a Palermo side that has been strong at home, losing just once at the Barbera this season.

Palermo’s attack, which put five past Carrarese last month, will look to break down a Padova defense that has conceded more than one goal only once in its last five games.

The visitors will rely on a structured, counter-attacking approach to try and silence the home crowd. Palermo, seeking momentum before a southern derby against Messina on Jan. 4, will aim to control possession and translate its home advantage into three crucial points in the Serie B table.

Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. local time (1400 GMT).