FORLI, Italy (Interstat) — In a result that defied pregame projections, visiting US Sambenedettese delivered a commanding 2-0 victory over FC Forli in a Serie C match Sunday at Stadio Tullo Morgagni.

The outcome stood in stark contrast to statistical forecasts. Interstat’s game simulator had projected a 1-1 draw, while its ELO rating system gave the home side a 70.2 percent probability of winning. Sambenedettese, however, rendered those figures irrelevant with a disciplined and effective performance from the opening whistle.

The visitors established control early and were rewarded in the 12th minute. Forward Matteo Stoppa found the net with a precise finish, silencing the home supporters and giving Sambenedettese a crucial early advantage. The goal forced Forli to chase the game, a task that grew more difficult as the first half wore on.

Sambenedettese compounded Forli’s frustration just before halftime. In the third minute of first-half stoppage time, midfielder Alessandro Dalmazzi doubled the lead. The goal, coming at such a pivotal moment, effectively broke the match open and sent the visitors into the interval with a firm grip on the proceedings.

The second half saw Forli press forward in an attempt to mount a comeback, but the Sambenedettese defense held firm. Organized and resilient, the visiting side managed the game expertly, limiting clear chances and seeing out the clean sheet. Forli’s attacks repeatedly foundered against a well-structured back line, failing to produce a response.

The final whistle confirmed a comprehensive opening-day triumph for Sambenedettese and a disappointing start for Forli. With the result, US Sambenedettese begins its Serie C campaign with a record of 1 win and 0 losses, its perfect start mirrored across all competitions. FC Forli, meanwhile, opens its season at 0 wins and 1 loss in both the league and overall.

The match, played on Jan. 18, 2026, showcased Sambenedettese’s ability to execute its game plan on the road against favored opposition. For Forli, the defeat at home underscores early-season issues to address, having been outperformed in key moments despite entering as the statistical favorite.