Casarano Calcio beats Barletta 3-1 amid AI image controversy

Casarano Calcio defeated Barletta 3-1 in a Serie C match highlighted by a hat-trick from player Chiricò. Chiricò scored in the 38th minute of the first half, followed by a goal from Barletta's Coccia in the 18th minute of the second half. Chiricò then secured the victory with two additional goals, including a penalty in the 35th minute of the second half.

Following the match, Casarano Calcio issued a statement contesting a widely circulated social media image regarding a disputed penalty incident. The club claims the image is “palesemente artefatta con l’uso dell’AI” (clearly fabricated using AI). The club cited several inconsistencies to support its claim, including a sponsor logo on player Negro's jersey that does not match official kit sponsors, mismatched numbering on the shorts, and the absence of the ball in the frame. Casarano stated it intends to defend its image and ensure that sports analysis is based on authentic and reliable imagery rather than artificial reconstructions.